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Charles “Chuck” Oxley
Charles “Chuck” Oxley
is remembered by colleagues for his professional attitude, initiation of
innovative programs and untiring work efforts as a member of MRA, RAM,
Michigan Recreation and Parks Association and MRPA. He provided
direction for the recreation and park profession for over 34 years.
“Chuck” was born in
Pontiac, MI, 1916. He played basketball in high school, played varsity
baseball and basketball while attending Eastern Michigan University and
received a BS degree in Physical Education (with a teaching certificate)
from the same university in 1942. After graduation he tried out for a
major league baseball team affiliated with the N.Y. Mets, but decided to
accept a teaching position (1943) at a Junior High School in the Flint
Public Schools system. He taught General Science and P.E., in a school
without a gym and a salary of $2,200. The following year he became
Assistant Director of Recreation, Highland Park (City/ Schools
Recreation Department) (1944-1962). He was an assistant to Harold G.
Myron, a 2006 MRPA Hall of Fame recipient and continued with his
academic career completing a MS degree from Wayne State University.
Chuck then became Director, City of Ann Arbor (City/ Schools Recreation
Department, 1963) and remained in the position, retiring in 1978.
“Chuck” believed in the joint (City/ Schools: Recreation Department).
He often stated this system facilities more efficient use of both school
and city recreation facilities. The recreation departments’ function is
to provide facilities and guidance after the educational system has
provided someone with basis of an activity or sport.
A mainstay of his
administrative philosophy was establishing cooperative relationships
with individuals and organizations that had not been considered
possible. These cooperative relationships enabled innovative programs
to be developed and implemented and served as exemplary program used by
other colleagues in the profession.
These innovative and
exemplary programs include: the Recreation Training Program- hired 40
high school students to assist on playgrounds in the summer. As part of
the program he hoped the experience would initiate an interest in our
profession as a career option; created the first Sports Clinic with the
University of Michigan Athletic Department (involving Johnny Orr, Herbie
Benedick, Bo Shembeckler) 13,000 children participated. This sports
clinic was the precursor to the present day sports camps at the
University of Michigan; he established the first Senior Citizen Center
in Ann Arbor, Michigan renovating a former race track building with the
use of volunteers from the city, the facility is still heavily used by
senior citizens; and, the Personal Development Workshop Seminars for
senior citizens- a lifelong learning program involving seniors directly
in the development and organization of the program.
“Chuck” was a very
active member of our professional state organization for over 25 years.
He served as President (twice), First-Vice President, Secretary (as
secretary he assumed responsibility for editor and writing articles for
the RAM newsletter without help from an Executive Director), on the
Board of Directors, and was a chair and/or member of numerous committees
including: Public Relations, Budget, Youth Development, Leadership State
Plan and Membership Recruitment.
“Chuck” was dedicated
to service outside the profession also which is exemplified by his
commitment to various community groups such as: President, Optimist
Club; President, Exchange Club; Pastoral Relations and Usher, First
Methodist Church; City of Berclay Recreation Commission- instrumental in
the hiring of the Recreation Director position; President, Senior Golf
League, Ann Arbor; and member of Kiwanis.
CHARLES “CHUCK” OXLEY
IS REMEMBRED BY HIS COLLEAGUES FOR HIS INTENSE PASSION FOR OUR
PROFESSION, AND HIS COOPERATIVE STRATEGIES ENABLING INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS
TO FLOURISH NOW AND FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.
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