Hort professor Will Carlson dead at 68

Mich. St. Univ. professor emeritus Will Carlson died Jan. 20 at the age of 68. Carlson had been a professor and director of horticulture extension for 32 years. He retired from the university in 2002.
He was instrumental in the formation of the former Bedding Plants Inc., which later became the Professional Plant Growers Association. This non-profit trade association at one time had over 2,000 members, including growers, wholesalers, retailers and allied trades. The association included both U.S. and international members.
While at the university he was responsible for developing educational programs and conducting research related to commercial flower production. He also established and was the former faculty coordinator of the Mich. Master Gardener program. He was also in charge of the Horticulture Demonstration Gardens.
The family has requested that those wishing to make contributions should choose a charity of their choice and to make them in Carlson's name.