Industry mourns the passing of Don Riddle Jr.

Photo from www.hometownannapolis.com 

Don Riddle Jr., founder and owner of Homestead Gardens in Davidsonville, Md., died Thursday. He was 63.

"It is with profound sadness that the Homestead Gardens family marks the passing of Don Riddle, Jr.," said Homestead Gardens director of marketing Tim Hamilton. "Mere words cannot begin to express the sense of loss felt by those who have considered Don a friend, mentor, co-worker, and community leader. We appreciate the outpouring of support from the community he so dearly loved, and ask that you keep his family in your prayers."

Riddle established Homestead Gardens in 1973 and over the years developed one of the most admired garden centers in the industry. He was active in both the industry and in his local community.  He served as President of the Garden Centers of America in 2001. During his presidency GCA, then a division of the American Nursery & Landscape Association, hosted the International Garden Center Congress Tour of U.S. East Coast.

"The ANLA leadership and staff extend deepest sympathies to Don’s wife, Laura, the Riddle family and the employees of Homestead Gardens," said Bob Dolibois, ANLA executive vice president.

GCA President Dave Williams spoke on behalf of his organization about the stunning news. “Garden Centers of America was saddened to learn of Don Riddle’s passing," Williams said. " We mourn his untimely death and express our sympathies to his family. Don was a true leader throughout this industry.  He generously and passionately shared his many successes with other independents in hopes of raising the bar for all independent garden centers and growers.  His friendship led me to countless friends and resources that have enriched me professionally and personally including Garden Centers of America.  Don’s passing is a tremendous and heartbreaking loss to all of us.”