John Cary worked with Maple Leaves Forever as CEO for over 6 years (2008 – 2014). John coordinated MLF’s fledgling rebate program, assessed rebate applications, liaised with nurseries, and provided valuable insight and information about tree care, planting and species to our team, followers and applicants. John died on January 20, 2022 at the age of 79, after several years of declining health.
From Mary Bella:
John was highly intelligent and principled, but more importantly a kind and gracious man. He was the President of our local residents’ association for 2 years, and on the board for 5, during which time I was Secretary. We worked closely together and he was always very encouraging and tactful, even when he had some constructive criticism to offer. He appreciated formal structure in our meetings (and my minutes!) and always made sure everyone got heard, was respectful and did not speak over each other. And of course he had that dry wit which we all appreciated.
Some of John’s key passions – those that he brought to the residents association and to Maple Leaves Forever – were trees, nature and conservation. I never realized how many other interests John pursued until I read his obituary – rowing (and “coxing”), gourmet cuisine, music, skiing, travel, dogs. He gave generously of his time volunteering with Trees Ontario, the Ontario Forestry Association, his local tennis club, the Don Rowing Club, and of course the Mimico Residents Association where we met.
I’m thankful for John’s warm recommendation that I be hired on at Maple Leaves Forever, an organization with which I’ve been doing ongoing marketing and website for 8 years now.
John, you will be missed.
You can read John’s full obituary and purchase a memorial tree in his name at the following link:
www.legacy.com/ca/obituaries/theglobeandmail/name/john-cary-obituary
May 14, 2014 MLF visit to Ottawa to request Native Maple Proclamation in a meeting with National Capital Commission
Left to right: Gary Lacy, Executive Director, NCC; John Cary, RPF; Dr.Mark Kristmanson, CEO, NCC; Tony DiGiovanni, Executive Director, Landscape Ontario; Ken Jewett, Founder, MLF; James Jewett, Director, MLF