In 1971, Robert and Patricia Evans purchased 9+ acres on Oak Creek, where they vacationed with their sons, Phil and Steve, in a cozy 2-bedroom trailer overlooking the Creek. The Evans family enjoyed the property as a private retreat, hosting friends and church groups for many years. Robert discovered the then relatively new idea of timesharing (vacation ownership) in 1980 and it seemed like an exceptional location for a vacation ownership development that could be enjoyed by many. A vacation ownership development enabled them to share their love of this special place with other families, just as they had for so many years.
The Evans’, along with their sons, formed a partnership to develop the property, and construction of the Arroyo Roble Timeshare Resort began with sales starting in 1983. While Robert and Steve pursued a farming opportunity in Montana, Phil stayed at the Resort to personally supervise the resort management and timeshare sales through 1989.
The Evans family retained 7 whole ownership Villas that are rented nightly through the Best Western Plus Arroyo Roble Hotel & Creekside Villas, which they developed around the same time as the resort. The Hotel Villas are maintained separately from the Resort, with separate management, housekeeping, and maintenance staff.
The Evans’ pride in and love of the property is evident throughout the Resort. While the development could have been zoned for many more Villas, the Evans opted to preserve the mature trees and landscape that gives the property its private tranquility. The resort consists of only 72 Villas plus recreational amenities and it was constructed to last! They utilized the best (and often most expensive) construction materials of the time, to keep maintenance low and maximize owners’ enjoyment. The careful design and solid foundation begin with masonry walls filled with solid grout and concrete floors ensure the quiet calm and lasting integrity of the Villas.
Since the resort’s beginnings, the Evans family remained involved with the Resort HOA management. Robert served on the Board of Directors until his retirement in 2013, and Phil has served as the President of the Board since it’s inception. Phil comments “This property is a place my family has enjoyed for over forty years, and holds many great memories for us. It is the ultimate reward to hear from other owners that have had similar experiences, and enjoy the property year after year, just as my family has”.
Strong and steady property management has been an essential aspect of the Resort’s continued success. Stan Beck, retired Major General, USAF, served as the property’s General Manager for 16 years, from 1982 until his retirement in 1998. Upon General Beck’s retirement, Ralph Woellmer, CHA (Certified Hotel Administrator) was selected as the resort’s General Manager. His strong hospitality and management skills, in addition to his broad range of construction knowledge, are invaluable to the Resort’s operation.
