Mel Schwanke, AAF, Past President of the Society of American Florists, and Recipient of the SAF Floriculture Hall of Fame Honor passed away at his home in Fremont Nebraska on Monday December 17, 2018.
Mel and his surviving wife of 70 years- Joey- are known throughout the Flower Industry- for their passion and dedication- and also as the
Famous Matching Couple- having dressed in coordinating outfits at Industry Events and Everyday in Joey’s Family Business- Greens Greenhouses Inc.
Mel served as the executive director of the Nebraska Florist Society for over 50 years- and also was the Executive Director of NeMoKan- the Nebraska Missouri and Kansas Florist Association Convention- held annually for many years. Mel served on numerous committees, including the Retail Florists Council for SAF and helped to create the American Florist Endowment for research and education in the Flower Industry.
Mel served as Marine in WWII – and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service. He was the Chairman of the Building fund for his church- Trinity Lutheran Church- where the service will be held on Friday December 21- at 1:00pm. Mel is survived by his Wife Joey, and children Jo Heinz, Cindy McKown and J Schwanke- 4 Grand Children and 6 Great Grandchildren.
Ludvigsens Funeral Home in Fremont Nebraska is in charge of the services, Visitation will be Thursday December 20 from 5-7pm. Greens Florist in Fremont is in charge of Flowers.
