James “Jim” Krone, AAF, a long-time rose grower and a leader of the Michigan Floral Association, passed away Tuesday, December 5. He was 82 years old.
James “Jim” Krone, AAF, a long-time rose grower and a leader of the Michigan Floral Association, passed away Tuesday, December 5. He was 82 years old.
Krone was born in East Lansing, Michigan. A graduate of Michigan State University and a captain in the U.S. Army, he spent much of his professional life working with his father, Paul, promoting the care and use of cut flowers.
As the executive director of Roses, Inc. in Haslett, Michigan, Krone testified before Congress on behalf of American flower farmers, which he felt were disadvantaged by trade agreements with South America, and frequently commented on rose supply, demand and care and handling in articles for some of the country’s most prominent newspapers.
Krone was also an instrumental member of the Michigan Floral Association in the 1960s, helping produce its magazine, The Michigan Florists (now titled The Professional Florist), sending mailings and organizing the annual convention. In 1971, he received the association’s National Service Award.
“His labor laid the ground work and helped to create one of the leading floral trade associations in the country,” said MFA CEO and Executive Vice President Rodney Crittenden. “Jim devoted many hours to helping florists be more successful.”
In 1980, the Society of American Florists honored Krone with the John H. Walker Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement in association leadership.
Will Carlson, executive director of the Floral Trade Council from 1994 to 2006, recalled Krone as “a kind and patient man.” “Jim was an advocate for cut flower growers for more than three decades,” he said. “He was a real joy to work with and a tremendous resource to me.”
In his second career, Krone worked for the Michigan legislature in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
His greatest joy was spending time with Valerie, his high school sweetheart and wife of 62 years, and their two daughters, Jackie and Kerry.
