Van Doren Park

Hi Neighbors!  How much do you really know about our local park?  I thought I would post some more info, just in case you wanted to know about it.  It is almost done and I know we can't wait to share it with all of you!

Completed in 1991

Van Doren Park is named after Merle B. Van Doren and his son Robert. Merle was born in Minnesota and came to Elk Grove in 1920, two years after he married his wife, Hattie. With his father-in-law, Van Doren began a general merchandise store on Elk Grove Blvd. Merle was a friendly man and active in several community organizations. He served on the Elk Grove Fire District Board of Directors, which was his major contribution to the community. He had 3 children (Wilma, Bob and Ruth) and 10 grandchildren. 

Robert attended Elk Grove Elementary and graduated from Elk Grove High School in 1945. He was a Merchant Marine, postal carrier, and insurance man. Robert was involved in the Elk Grove Firemanâs Association and was a member of the Elk Grove Fire District Board of Directors (later renamed Elk Grove Community Services District) from 1969 to 1989. Robert is a Charter member of the Elk Grove Rotary Club, where he served as secretary for 7 years, and was involved in Masonic Lodge #173.