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BORN
1951
DIED
2019
John Trexler Obituary
Westborough - John Wheaton Trexler, Founding Director of Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Boylston, died peacefully on Saturday, November 16 at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester due to complications from Myasthenia Gravis. His care by the hospital's dedicated professionals was unsurpassed.
John's passion for public horticulture, gardening, Russian and Roman history was profound. As anyone who knew him would attest, John had a powerful personality. Appointed director of the Worcester County Horticultural Society in 1984, he devoted his professional life to building Tower Hill. His memoir, "Tower Hill, The First 25 Years" recounts his experiences--the challenges but mostly the joy--of creating a nationally recognized public garden in partnership with his beloved community of Central Massachusetts.
John is survived by his loving partner of 38 years, Rob Zeleniak of Westborough, his two sisters, Barbara Rhodes of Richmond, CA, Sally Trexler-Sturdevant of Port Angeles, WA, and his brother James Trexler of Woodbridge, VA, along with many in-laws, nieces and nephews who adored him, and long-time, dedicated friends who were just as important to him as family. There will be a private memorial service in the Spring, John's favorite season, to celebrate his remarkable life and accomplishments. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to Tower Hill Botanic Garden's horticulture acquisition fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Trexler
Todd O'Toole
March 9, 2021
Thank you John for your inspiration. I suppose I was 1 of many that gained value in myself and the value of gardening through your guidance. You are missed and remembered with fond thoughts and gratitude.
December 26, 2019
John Trexler was a very special, remarkable man whose joy in the splendid gardens at Tower Hill was contagious. I have many fine memories touring TH with him in all seasons. Imagine my delight when I found out one of my favorite plant specimens was his - the Weeping Alaskan Cedar - and when I see one, I will always think of him. RIP ~ Andrea T. Graveline, Boston Junior League
Garden Club
November 25, 2019
He did an excellent job of realizing an ambitious and sophisticated vision for Tower Hill Botanic Garden which will long benefit the region's garden lovers.
Carol Stocker
Boston Globe garden columnist
Paul Keisling
November 24, 2019
We are so saddened to read of John's passing. Rob, we send our deepest sympathy, and to his family as well. John was an inspiration to all who enjoy gardening and the out of doors. We throughly enjoyed our visits and wish that we had kept more in touch recently. Peace to his memory.
Sincerely, Paul & Robin Keisling.
November 23, 2019
Bob.................,
I am truly saddened by john's passing bu I am glad that he did have a retirement and was able to spend time with you and his friends.
My day always always made better when I the good fortune to run into John and you.
May John b eternally happy and pain free in his next life.
Blessing to all,
Carol Burke
Millbury, MA
November 23, 2019
We knew John for many years, enjoying his company on our visits from England. His knowledge of all things botanical will be missed, as well as his character and dry sense of humour. Our condolences to Bob and the family.
Vivienne & Andrew Gates
Georgeanne Roe
November 22, 2019
My condolences to Rob and all of John's family and colleagues. I have admired his accomplishments for years, loved his book, (wish I had been able to get it autographed). I will remember him with my donation to Tower Hill.
Georgeanne T. Roe
Doris Czajkowski
November 22, 2019
Condolences to all who knew and loved him. Rest In Peace John.
Sallyann King
November 21, 2019
I remember when our garden club helped weed around the farm house when this beautiful place that John created was just beginning. Now I marvel at the beauty there every time I visit. Thank you John for being so dedicated to your dream and the dream of so many others. Rest in peace.
To your partner and family I send my sincere sympathy.
Diane Bullock
November 21, 2019
John was a wonderful and gifted man. Thoughts of the farm house on all that property brings back wonderful memories. John has taught me a lot re horticulture. Thank you John. May you rest in peace. You will be missed.
Diane Bullock
Heather O'Connor
November 21, 2019
Deepest sympathies to his family and friends. I have been in awe of his lovely gardens for many years at Tower Hill. He inspired me to make my own gardens, and indoor spaces with plants. May he RIP! <3
Brenda Morris
November 21, 2019
Working with John on the Lost Garden project was an honor. His vast knowledge of all things Worcester and Horticultural never ceased to amaze me. Condolences to Rob and John's family.
Robert Antonelli
November 21, 2019
On behalf of the City of Worcester, DPW & Parks, Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Division our condolences to John's Family & Friends. He will be truly missed by all.
Lois Bennett
November 21, 2019
My deepest sympathy to the family of John Trexler, Tower Hill, and those for whom trees have a unique and special place in their lives, because of John's classes.
Mr. Trexler taught me to identify trees by the bark or bud formation or leaf habit. I thoroughly was enthralled by his teachings from the many classes I took at Tower Hill. Trudging through freezing cold leaves at the outskirts of the the Tower Hill , or the rare weekend excursion to his home and yard to further share his knowledge, with his students, was indeed a rare and memorable experience.
Peace be with you always, John. I will miss his sense of humor and enthusiasm in imparting of knowledge with those students with a thirst for learning all he shared.
Lewis Clark
November 21, 2019
We were deeply saddened to learn of John's passing. He was responsible for our attachment to Tower Hill, which culminated when I represented the estate of a dear friend, who left a bequest to the garden, her place of refuge and solace.
John's love of horticulture and fine sense of the aesthetic have indeed left a lasting legacy at the botanic garden he loved.
Our deepest expression of sympathy goes out to Rob and to all of John's family.
We will cherish his memory for a lifetime.
Sincerely,
Lewis Clark
Marlborough, MA & Venice, FL
Ruby & Glen Senkowski
November 19, 2019
Our deepest sympathy to you, Rob, and to your family. How blessed you two were to have found each other. A truly special love. May your love continue to sustain you.
Karen and Rob Perry
November 19, 2019
We are sorry to hear of John's passing. Thank you for Tower Hill and your expertise. As an old neighbor in Boylston, I once jested to him for advice on our property, he kindly said it looks perfect (I smirked) He was so nice. Mother Nature smiles more because of John. Light and love to Rob and John's family.
Betty Santelices
November 19, 2019
Sorry we didn't get to meet you in person but knew what a wonderful person you were from my high school friend Bob, I know you were a special person because of your love for the earth, plants, flowers and I know this because my mother loved the land. ❤
Lynn
November 19, 2019
The gardens at Tower Hill will forever whisper John's name. Heartfelt condolences to John's family and friends.
Christene Noonan
November 19, 2019
Thinking of you and your families during this difficult time. My love and condolences to you.
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