American Floral Endowment establishes Herman Meinders Memorial Tribute

The American Floral Endowment has announced a Memorial Tribute to honor the life and contributions of Herman Meinders, who passed away March 30 at age 87.

The tribute was established by AFE Past Chair Red Kennicott of Kennicott Brothers, a longtime friend of Meinders, in recognition of his impact.

Born and raised in Pipestone, Minnesota, Meinders' journey took him from a small farming community to being a leader in the floral industry.

With just 20 cents to his name, he set out on a path that led him to establish American Floral Services in 1970 in Oklahoma City. Under his leadership, AFS became one of the largest and most successful flowers-by-wire services, growing to include tens of thousands of florist members across North America and internationally. AFS merged with Teleflora in 2000.

Meinders was a former chair (2000-2001), treasurer and trustee of AFE, where he played a key role in advancing education, research and industry development for nearly a decade. In 2011, he and his wife, LaDonna (who preceded him in death in October 2024), created AFE’s first-ever undesignated named fund, which provided support for the industry's most critical needs.

The couple also established the Meinders Retail Florist Education Grant Fund, ensuring retail florists could access educational opportunities. With contributions now surpassing $500,000, the program awarded more than $10,000 in grants in its first year alone, with continued growth expected.

"As a past chairman of AFE, I can attest to the importance of the work the Endowment does and the support it provides for all aspects of the floral industry," Meinders previously said. "I’m proud to have been a founding part of helping broaden AFE’s reach in the early days, and now to continue to support them with this focus on retail education."

Meinders received dozens of honors and awards. In 2012, he received the Floriculture Hall of Fame Award by the Society of American Florists. He also received the Leland T. Kintzele Distinguished Service Award in 1994.

"Herman was a true example of the American Dream and an inspirational role model in how he conducted his professional and personal life," Kennicott said.

Herman and LaDonna were passionate supporters of Oklahoma City University, where they both attended college. Their contributions led to the establishment of the Meinders School of Business. Their philanthropic reach also extended to Meinders Gardens, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma City Zoo, among others. His charitable efforts impacted not only Oklahoma but more than 20 states, supporting causes in higher education, healthcare and nonprofit initiatives.

"Herman Meinders will be remembered not only for his business leadership but also for his kindness, generosity and dedication to making a lasting difference. His legacy continues to inspire and uplift countless individuals, and through this Memorial Tribute Fund, his influence will endure for generations," AFE said in a statement.

His celebration of life was held April 4.

To donate to the Herman Meinders Memorial Tribute, click here or send a check with this form to: American Floral Endowment c/o Herman Meinders Memorial Tribute, 610 Madison St. Suite 101 PMB 803, Alexandria, VA 22314.

The family is always notified of donations, and contributions can be made in any amount.