Vaughan honours Bob Klein with trail naming
Visitors to the Kleinburg New Forest North Woodlot can now follow a trail named as a tribute to George Robert (Bob) Klein, honouring his lifelong community advocacy and environmental stewardship.
On July 13, Mayor Steven Del Duca, Members of Council, the Klein family and representatives from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, gathered to unveil a commemorative sign in Bob’s honour.
After a lifetime of service to his local community, Bob passed away on Jan. 24, 2025. His commitment was unwavering, with involvement in Humber River Valley tree plantings, the Kleinburg Area Residents Association, Kleinburg Public School Council, as a Scout leader and children’s softball coach. Bob held several leadership positions with the Kleinburg and Area Ratepayers Association, the Binder Twine Festival and the Binder Twine Trust, and was an active member of the Kleinburg Old Boys Club.
Naming this nearly 1.2-kilometre-long trail after Bob honours his legacy and recognizes his lasting impact on the community he championed. Bob Klein Trail is part of Vaughan’s extensive trail network, which provides residents and visitors with opportunities to explore and enjoy the city’s parks and open spaces.
QUOTES
“Bob Klein was a dedicated member of the Kleinburg community, and it is our hope that renaming this trail in his honour will help preserve his remarkable legacy for generations to come. As a longtime resident, Bob cared deeply about his community and the natural beauty of this area. His impact is reflected in the many tree plantings he supported throughout the Humber River Valley, his contributions alongside the City of Vaughan and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and his strong advocacy through the Kleinburg Area Residents Association – efforts that continue to shape our city. I hope all who visit the Bob Klein Trail are reminded of the power of stewardship, advocacy and community spirit.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
“For more than 50 years, Bob Klein dedicated his time, energy and passion to preserving Kleinburg’s unique character, protecting our natural environment and making life better for everyone around him. Naming this trail in his honour is a fitting tribute to this remarkable individual. I am very pleased to have been a part of this initiative, and I hope all who walk this trail will be inspired by Bob’s legacy for many years."
- Local and Regional Councillor Mario Ferri
“Renaming this trail in Bob’s honour is a fitting tribute, reflecting both his passion for environmental stewardship and his lasting contributions to civic life. This space – where natural beauty and a sense of community meet – truly embodies the values he championed. Ward 1 was fortunate to have him, and I am honoured to be part of today’s unveiling as we celebrate a life of service and a legacy that will continue to inspire us all.”
- Ward 1 Councillor Marilyn Iafrate
“We extend our sincere thanks to the City of Vaughan and the TRCA for their collaboration in naming the Bob Klein Trail. For nearly 50 years, Bob was a dedicated community champion who worked tirelessly to preserve the unique character of Kleinburg for future generations. Of his many contributions, he was instrumental in the creation of Kleinburg New Forest and inspired countless community members of all ages to help plant the trees that now provide shade and enhance Kleinburg’s beautiful greenscape. It is especially fitting that this trail is located in the North Woodlot – a place that reflects Bob's vision and legacy. We look forward to walking this trail for generations to come, remembering a man who inspired us all to be environmental stewards, and to actively contribute to our community”
- Klein Family – Tiiu, Greg, George & Liis-Ann
QUICK FACTS
On July 13, the City of Vaughan with the support from Toronto and Region Conservation Authority officially named the pedestrian trail in the Kleinburg New Forest North Woodlot to Bob Klein Trail to honour and celebrate Bob’s life.
Mayor Steven Del Duca, Members of Council, members of the Klein family and representatives from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority gathered to announce the naming of Bob Klein Trail and unveil a commemorative sign. The dedication reflects Bob’s stewardship initiatives and community spirit.
In June 2025, Vaughan Council endorsed a Member’s Resolution (PDF) brought forward by Ward 1 Councillor Marilyn Iafrate and Local and Regional Councillor Mario Ferri requesting the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s permission to name the trail.
LEARN MORE
City of Vaughan’s website
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s website
June 4, 2026 Member’s Resolution (PDF)
