Rab Wilkinson

For more than half a century, Rab Wilkinson was synonymous with bowling on Staten Island — as an accomplished bowler, bowling professional, manager, proprietor and tireless ambassador for the sport.

Wilkinson was an outstanding competitor in his own right. He established himself among Staten Island's leading bowlers during the 1960s, competed successfully in local and regional events, and continued performing at a high level for decades.  His accomplishments included numerous tournament and league successes and an 813 series in 1990, demonstrating remarkable longevity on the lanes.

Yet it was Wilkinson's contribution beyond his own scores that defined his legacy.  He devoted his professional life to the bowling business, serving in management and ultimately becoming a bowling proprietor committed to providing Staten Island bowlers with first-class facilities and opportunities to enjoy and compete in the sport.  His career eventually led to the operation of Country Lanes and the establishment of Rab's Country Lanes, forever connecting his name with Staten Island bowling.

Wilkinson continually reinvested in the bowling experience while supporting leagues, tournaments, youth programs and the greater bowling community.  His generosity extended well beyond the lanes, using his business and the sport he loved to support charitable organizations and community causes throughout Staten Island.

His influence was felt throughout the local bowling industry, but perhaps his greatest contribution was creating a place where generations of Staten Islanders could bowl, compete, celebrate and come together.

Wilkinson's lifetime of service earned him induction into the Staten Island USBC Hall of Fame, becoming the first inductee into the Association's Hall of Fame after reforming under the USBC umbrella.  His impact continued to be recognized following his passing in 2008, including the ceremonial naming of Rab Wilkinson Way outside Rab's Country Lanes in his honor.

Rab Wilkinson's legacy was not defined solely by the games he bowled or the pro shops and bowling centers he operated, but by a lifetime devoted to bowling, its people and the community he called home.