A tree is going to be planted in memory of Sharif Rahman outside the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre in Owen Sound.
The city’s community services committee approved a recommendation at its meeting Wednesday to plant a commemorative oak tree in a prominent location between the building and 10th Street East, allowing it to be visible for vehicles driving by and pedestrians using the main walkway to the facility.
Rahman died on Aug. 24, 2023 from injuries he suffered in an assault outside his restaurant The Curry House in downtown Owen Sound. He was 44-years-old, and left behind a wife and a young daughter.
There was an outpouring of support for Rahman’s family in wake of his death, and also sadness and anger that reverberated in the community over the incident.
Owen Sound Police and the OPP confirmed a homicide investigation into Rahman’s death and did put on an appeal for help in identifying three male suspects allegedly involved in the assault, but no arrests have been announced nearly a year later.
Coulter told community services committee members Rahman’s family was contacted about the commemorative tree idea and are grateful for the initiative.
A small plaque would also be installed with the tree. A volunteer group would be tasked with coming up with the wording for the plaque, in consultation with Rahman’s family.
