Robert Bollinger ~ "Mr. Oaks Park"
Benefactor Oaks Park Association

This site is a remembrance of Robert, an effort to keep his idea of roller skating alive as well as document his business interests which included United Amusement Company (The Oaks Amusement Park); Fun-Tastic Rides, Co.; Fun-Tastic Shows Co.; Funland Park; Burrard Amusements, LTD (Playland Park); Radio Station KLIQ; Roll-A-Way Skating Rink; Oaks Park, LTD; BBM Amusement Co.; Northwest Chicago Skate Agency; Fun Amusements; and Northwest Chicago Skate Company.

In 2009, while managing down, documents were fund showing Robert purchased The Oaks in 1951 from his father's widow.

VIP Pass was presented to Robert during an Old Timers Nite
after Oaks Park Association took control of "The Oaks"

Robert firmly believed the session skater should have priority. He was careful to show consideration to all. The Oaks Rink was a Grand Lady because of its size and the style of management.

Knowing people would lost interest in skating if they were not challenged, he was very supportive of the competitive and test skating programs. In addition, he provided music that was not readily available at other entities.

His management style combined his vision and understanding of skating thus the skating surfaces were ulitized to the advantage of the skater. For those who were nervous about learning to turn around, he reserved skating areas (with easy access to the main floor).

Balancing the number of professional teachers on staff as well as time allotted for practice and lessons was part of his design to keep skaters interested in the sport.

Skater safety and providing a safe environment for families to have fun and exercise together were always foremost.

The pipe organ, his favorite instrument, provided the full sound of a band and is a quality families enjoy (especially, if they learned some session style skate dancing). Its music is timeless.

Robert resisted using popular music due to its unique set of crowd control problems. In addition, he wanted to offer the public music they couldn't get just any place thus keeping The Oaks a special place.