Ted Riback

Ted Riback, the founder and namesake of Camp BB Riback, was born in the USA. In 1930, he moved to Calgary and soon became an active member of the Jewish Community. Ted Riback was the moving force behind many Jewish community projects such as the JCC and the Beth Tzedec Memorial Park. His leadership and committment have enriched our community. Ted Riback has been continuously involved in making Camp BB Riback one of the finest Jewish summer camps in Canada.

Before being located at Pine Lake, the communities of Alberta and Saskatchewan rented a facility at Chestemere Lake. In the early 1950’s, Ted Riback and others approached the B’nai B’rith regional council, convincing them to take part in finding a new permanent location for Camp BB. After visiting many possible spots, Ted Riback finally settled on a site at Pine Lake known as ‘Walter’s Resort.’ The location was 128 acres, situated between the cities of Calgary and Edmonton. The local B’nai B’rith lodges contributed to the Camp purchase for about $12,500.

Our camp adopted Riback to our name and a number of our buildings are named after and in honour of the Riback family. We are grateful for all of Ted Riback’s family and their everlasting support of our camp. He is survived by his grandchildren Cheryl Green-Ockrant, Howard Green & Kathy Malanchuk, Adam Green, Tevy & Julie Grunberg, and Mia Riback; and his great-grandchildren Jordan, Matthew, Bradley, & Gavin Ockrant, Brandon & Robin Green, Luke Malanchuk & Amanda White, Tara & Al Gunderson, and Gina & Sofie Grunberg.

On Ted Riback’s 100th birthday, Camp BB Riback held a birthday celebration. Mr. Riback was moved to tears during our camp-wide rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’, and our camper’s enjoyed a slice of birthday cake in his honour.