In the Toronto neighbourhood of Black Creek, long-time gardener and volunteer Rudy Riske has developed a dedicated fanbase who have been cheering him as he has worked for decades to transform a hidden piece of public property.

After years of quiet dedication, residents came together on Thursday to mark Riske’s 100th birthday and to celebrate his years of hard work.

“He is basically everybody’s hero … passionate and a human, beautiful human being that contributes to the community,” event organizer Peter Wolfl said.

Riske, a retired construction worker, settled in the Black Creek neighbourhood more than six decades ago after immigrating to Canada. In the years since, he has become something of a local icon.

“When I am working there and people walk by and it’s close to York University … t

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