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In Memory of John Carroll, 1923-2002

John Carroll

1923-2002

Bonsai Society of Greater Cincinnati member John CarolJohn Carroll was one of the major factors for the growth of the Art of Bonsai in Cincinnati.  Seeing his first bonsai in an Ikebana display in 1978 was all it took to get him interested in those little trees.  He joined the Bonsai Society of Greater Cincinnati, and his interest and involvement grew.  He held all the offices in the club at least once, chaired most committees and numerous spring and fall shows.  He studied with many national and internationally known artists.  He was the main contact for the society’s speaker’s bureau and really enjoyed giving lectures and demonstrations to garden clubs, schools, and youth groups throughout the city.  John was enthusiastic about bonsai and loved sharing his knowledge with all that would listen.  The interest that the audience expressed was satisfaction enough to make it worthwhile to John.

One of John’s most lasting accomplishments was the creation of a permanent bonsai collection at the Krohn Conservatory in 1996.  This continues to serve the Bonsai Society, as well as the public by giving exposure to and creating an appreciation for the art of bonsai.  The collection was initially tropical, but with the remodeling of the Oliver Gale Memorial Garden, the collection was expanded outdoors with hardy trees.  John gave of his time and talent to maintain the collection.  Part of his collection was donated to the Krohn and additional trees came from several members of the club.

Bonsai was one of the highlights of his life, not just the satisfaction of the art form, but the wonderful relationship that he and Marge, his wife of 53 years, made and maintained locally, nationally, and worldwide.  John was an inspiration to all who supported him.  Even though critically ill, he continued serving the Cincinnati Club until a few weeks before he passed.

The Board of Directors of the Park Board dedicated the John Carroll Bonsai Gallery as a remembrance of and in appreciation for all of John Carroll’s efforts to establish this outstanding and long-lasting Bonsai Exhibit.