Svob Park
Vineyard Rd. & Park Dr.
7.8 acres
Svob Park, built in 1984, was named
in honor of Robert M. “Bob” Svob. Originally from
Gallup New Mexico, Bob came to Arizona at the age of 9
in 1918. Bob spent his formative years in Lehi, Arizona
and was laborer on the construction of Coolidge Dam.
However, Bob’s legacy to Tempe is in his many years of
service as an employee of ASU.
From 1931 until his retirement in
1975, Bob was responsible for ASU campus beautification
efforts. The numerous trees, shrubs, flowers and
gardens are largely the results of Bob’s devotion and
care to the aesthetic of the campus. In addition to his
care of campus, Bob found time for many civic
activities.
A true community leader, Bob was an integral member of
the Roosevelt Council of the Boys Scouts for 35 years
and even co-hosted a local gardening show on channel 5
during the 1950’s. A member of almost every garden club
in the valley, Bob’s crowning achievement in civic
leadership were his two terms as a Tempe City Councilman
from 1960-68.
Bob will always be remembered for his
numerous contributions in helping shape the growth and
development of Tempe while always keeping an eye towards
maintaining quality landscaping in the community. Tempe
is a better place as a result of Bob’s many efforts.
