The American Floral Endowment (AFE) announced a new memorial tribute in memory of John M. Hodapp, who passed unexpectedly on Feb. 11, 2022.
John was senior vice president of agency operations of Hortica, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, which has dedicated itself to protecting businesses in the floriculture and horticulture industries since 1887. His previous positions at Hortica included national accounts manager and regional vice-president of the Midwest Region. He was actively engaged in serving the needs of many Hortica clients, including the American Floral Endowment, the Society of American Florists, and many other industry businesses, advising on risk management and insurance issues.
“John was one of the most genuine people I’ve had the opportunity to work with,” said Tim Noble, president of Hortica. “He was deeply committed to his clients and would go out of his way to provide the assistance, guidance and direction they needed in order to make the most informed decision possible. He had a way of engaging people that made the feel comfortable and allowed them to know that he had their best interests in mind.”
The memorial tribute was established by long-time clients and friends, the Tawaga Family and Ken Young, AAF, CEO and owner of Phoenix Flower Shops.
“He just loved everything about the flower industry, visiting people, interacting with them,” Young said. “In our case, he was always trying to find out where there were holes in coverage. Always out in front of things how can I protect my clients the best and give them the best service.”
In its announcement of the memorial fund, AFE wrote, “John will always be remembered for his eternal optimism and friendly smile. He loved to travel and meet new people. He also had a passion for cars and airplanes… and, most of all, caring for and bringing joy to his family!”
John and his wife Cathy had recently moved to Eddyville, Kentucky, where he planned to retire before the end of the year. He had recently celebrated his 35th anniversary with Hortica. Prior to joining Hortica, John worked for 12 years alongside his father at the family’s independent insurance agency. John is survived by his wife Cathy, their son Ryan, daughter Ashley, and their spouses, four grandsons (Beau, Luke, Tucker, Grant) and one granddaughter (Arlie).
Contributions to the John M. Hodapp Memorial Tribute can be made here, or by sending a check with this form to:
American Floral Endowment
c/o John Hodapp Memorial Tribute
610 Madison St, Ste 101, PMB 803
Alexandria, VA 22314
The family will be notified of donations and contributions can be made in any amount.
Services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, Feb. 18, 2022, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Marine, Illinois. Interment will be at Saint Elizabeth Catholic Cemetery in Marine, Illinois. View John Hodapp’s obituary here.
Stephanie Brady is the project manager for the Society of American Florists.
