PGMS Announces Passing of E. Earl Wilson

The Professional Grounds Management Society announced the passing of E. Earl Wilson, past president of the Society on July 22. He was instrumental in forming an alliance between PGMS, Professional Lawn Care Association of America and Associated Landscape Contractors of America to host a joint trade show for the Green Industry now known as the Green Industry Exposition. 

He was also an important figure in promoting grounds management as a profession.

“Earl was a very dear friend of mine and an extraordinary mentor for so many people in the Green Industry," says past PGMS president Tom Smith of Cincinnati’s Spring Grove Cemetery. "He was just a genuine, outstanding human to every single person he ever met. He was an unbelievable guy as far as leadership and moving our industry forward in getting people to realize the professionalism of the industry,” 

At the age of 18, Wilson enlisted in the Marines, serving his country for four years. Upon his return, he entered Ohio State University. After graduation, Earl joined up with Bill Thorton to form the Thorton Wilson Company. Dealing with horticulture sales and distribution, his professional career was dedicated to his company as well as PGMS.

“He was always so dedicated and could always lend a helping hand," says Ted Schull, a long-time friend. "Earl was one of the greatest guys I have ever known and truly helped so many people throughout his life.”

To honor his contributions, PGMS established the E. Earl Wilson Award – its highest honor – in 2004.

“Earl was gentleman’s gentleman," says Villanova University’s Kevin O’Donnell, the award’s sole recipient since its creation. "He was a tremendous asset to not only PGMS but the Green Industry as a whole, being one of the primary facilitators of the GIE. His leadership of PGMS and the GIE will have an impact on all of the members and attendees for many years to come. I was honored to meet Earl and his lovely wife Gene on several occasions at PGMS meetings and they were always very gracious and supportive of PGMS and its members.”

Tom Shaner, executive director of PGMS says “Earl's contribution to PGMS and the Green Industry will long be remembered," he says. "We are hoping the implementation of the E. Earle Wison Award as well as the continued progress of programs he established will honor his outstanding contributions to PGMS and the Green Industry.”