James “Jim” Noodle passed away July 1, 2016. Kennicott Brothers Company and Nordlie Inc. have established the Jim Nordlie Memorial Tribute through the American Floral Endowment (AFE) in his honor.
Kennicott Brothers Company and Nordlie Inc. have established the Jim Nordlie Memorial Tribute through the American Floral Endowment (AFE). James “Jim” Nordlie passed away on July 1, 2016, at the age of 93.
The new memorial tribute was established with a $1,000 contribution, and the Pete Garcia Company will donate an additional $1,000 to the fund.
Nordlie was born on Jan. 12, 1923 in Detroit and received a business degree from the University of Michigan. After graduation and his return from military service in World War II, he joined Nordlie Inc., a Michigan-based family wholesale floral business. The company merged with Kennicott Brothers Company in 2014.
Under his leadership, Nordlie Inc. expanded to seven stores in Michigan, Ohio and Florida.
Having a passion for roses, Nordlie managed two rose-growing greenhouses in Ohio and two rose farms in Guatemala. He also served as president of the Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association from 1966 to 1968.
His dedication to the floral industry earned him many awards and honors throughout his lifetime, including the Leland T. Kintzele Distinguished Service Award in 1988, as well as induction into the Michigan Floral Foundation Hall of Fame in 2011. Nordlie was admired by employees, customers and colleagues throughout the industry.
To make a tax-deductible contribution to the Jim Nordlie Memorial Tribute, donate online and specify the donation is for the Jim Nordlie Memorial Tribute in the “description” box. Alternatively, donations can be mailed to: American Floral Endowment, c/o Jim Nordlie Memorial Tribute, 1001 N. Fairfax St., Suite 201 Alexandria, VA, 22314.
Memorial tributes are a special way to remember and honor industry members, family and friends in a lasting manner. A $1,000 contribution establishes a tribute. Once established, contributions can be made in any amount, and the family is always notified of a donation.
