Obituaries

I knew the Mezitt children growing up, and I am very sorry to hear of the loss of their father. I lost my own recently, and I know how difficult it is. Sending kind thoughts to the whole family.

Posted by Anonymous on September 17, 2024

It is with shock and sadness that I heard about Wayne's passing. Having travelled in many of the same circles as he and other similar colleagues; it is a loss many of us feel closely. While I knew Wayne for decades; it was really our time on the Cary Award Selection Committee that we bonded, along with many other horticultural experts; simply speaking about incredible plants. Although I served many years as Chair; it was always Wayne who would call or email and nudge the next meeting into fruition. I would love to attend the memorial on Tuesday; and fully expected to but an employee has just lost a child; and I am now needed here. There will no doubt be many "heavy hitters" in horticulture there; and may you be comforted by the many stories you will hear about how Wayne touched each and every one of us.

Posted by Jeffrey on July 28, 2024

It is with great sadness, and shock (because Wayne was such a vital person) to learn of Wayne's recent, and untimely, passing. Although we knew each other (and moved in similar plant-related circles) for many years, it was not until September of 2023 when I renewed, and deepened, my acquaintance with Wayne. I attended a site visit to Weston Nurseries, sponsored by Grow Native Massachusetts, to hear about the company's efforts to "beef up" the native plant side of its business (called Weston Rewilding), along with a move in the direction of more ecologically sustainable practices (like eschewing the use of peat in growing medium). My understanding is that Wayne, though retired, was largely responsible for encouraging Weston Nurseries to move in this direction. After arriving at the meeting and seeing only Dunkin Donuts on offer as the refreshments, I went out to my car and got several jars of foraged Shagbark Hickory nuts: two for the audience and one for Wayne personally. He was touched by the gesture, and our conversation turned to other wild edible nuts, like Black Walnuts. Wayne wanted to know how I got those nuts open, and, after finding out the specialized tool I used, he found and procured a similar device on eBay. Wayne also showed great interest in my post-retirement pursuit of gathering the seed of, propagating and planting native edible plants, so much so that he invited me to co-write with him an article about my lifelong involvement with plants and conservation for Mass. Hort's Leaflet newsletter. It appeared this past January, and has been of great value to me in sharing my personal story. Wayne later invited me as his guest to attend a meeting of the Horticultural Club of Boston, which I very much enjoyed. Most recently, I was delighted to learn about Wayne's taking over the Gardening column in the Globe, and had prepared in my head a list of provocative topics for him to take up in that column, should he be in need of any ideas. Sadly, that can't happen. Last but not least: I was particularly saddened to read that Wayne's death was caused by Babesiosis, transmitted to him via a tick bite. Truly a tragic turn of events for a person who so loved being outdoors and surrounded by plants. RIP, Wayne, you were, to use a term from my ethnic background, a "mensch".

Posted by Russ Cohen on July 24, 2024

Beth and the Mezitt family. We are so sorry to hear of Wayne's tragic death and send out thoughts to you all. We have a beautiful tree in our yard that Wayne brought to an Ag. club mtg. years ago and it bloomed this year for the first time! We re so glad to now have it now and think of you often.

Posted by Steve & Joan Verrill on July 22, 2024

Peter and Family - So sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad, He left a lasting impression with me. When I was a young business owner I visited the Hopkinton Garden Centre many years ago. As a maintenance only landscaper, I was not familiar with the plant names and varieties given to me by a LA, your Dad could not have been nicer and more helpful. I asked for him name so i could tell his boss, he gave me his name and smiled. Years later I figured it out when I saw him at NE Grows 🙂 Thoughts and Prayers

Posted by Bill Butts on July 22, 2024

Beth: we are so saddened to hear of Wayne's passing, a true and genuine giant of a man. Wayne and Lee Leonard were the first Lambda Chi's I met on campus as they entered my freshman dorm room and rushed for the chapter. He was always a favorite of our due to his gentle nature and friendly spirit. Our condolences on Wayne's passing. Our prayers are with you and you and your extended family.

Posted by Ralph Wilhelm on July 21, 2024

We are so sorry for your loss. Mr. Mezitt leaves behind a wonderful legacy and has truly made the world a more beautiful place. Our deepest condolences to the entire Mezitt family.

Posted by Lisa & Eric Carty on July 21, 2024

Sad news indeed. So sorry for your loss. We are surrounded by nature and gardens, so remember thar your father/husband is everywhere and always with you.

Posted by Anonymous on July 21, 2024

I don't know you I'm so sorry to hear about your husband passing he is now resting in peace may god be with you and your family you are all in my prays always remember the good times you had with him

Posted by Lorraine Butler on July 21, 2024

Anyone who dedicates their life to creating a business to share their love for nature and gardening deserves to be honored. My condolences to the family. -🌸 a loyal customer. 🌸

Posted by Anonymous on July 20, 2024

I only met Mr. Mezitt once and after reading about his life he will will be long remembered by so many. His passion for life was remarkable and serves as a model for us all. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Weston Nurseries employees.

Posted by Valerie A Tessicini on July 20, 2024

Wayne was a scholar and a gentleman, but he also had a great sense of humour, generosity and joy that he just loved to spread across communities. He was a great board chair when I was at Mass Hort, and a friend and mentor that will be missed. Beth, Peter and family, you are in my thoughts. John Forti (Hort. Club of Boston & Bedrock Gardens)

Posted by John Forti on July 20, 2024

Beth, Thinking of you at this difficult time and sending healing prayers & comforting hugs. I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m honored to have met Wayne and admire his his effort and desire to remain (Mid)-strong! He will be missed greatly….xoxo.

Posted by Jane Ellis on July 19, 2024