It is with both reverence and sadness that the employee-owners of Gardener’s Supply Company say goodbye to our beloved founder, Will Raap. Will passed away on Monday, December 12, 2022. Since he founded Gardener’s in 1983, Will led our growth for almost 40 years, most recently as a member of our Board of Directors.

Will was a visionary whose mission was to improve the world. Through his work and his legacy at Gardener’s Supply Company, Will believed that gardening could do just that, by nourishing the body, elevating the spirit, growing stronger communities, and making powerful connections with our planet. A dedicated steward of the earth and a pioneer of sustainability, Will always believed that through education and inspiration, our company could encourage more gardeners to adopt earth-friendly products and practices.

One of the greatest legacies that Will built at Gardener’s was offering ownership of the company to the employees, beginning in 1987. Our employee-ownership is what has allowed us to continue operating as a mission-driven business, staying true to the core values that Will envisioned for the company.

Gardener’s Supply became 100% employee-owned on the winter solstice in 2009. Will chose this date because of its symbolic importance, as a time to reflect, reset, and start anew. Every year, on the winter solstice we celebrate our history, recommit to our mission — and will continue, now, to remember Will and the immeasurable impact he has made, in our company and in the world.

It’s impossible to sum up all that Will means to our company and our community, but we think the pin commemorating our 100% employee ownership celebration in 2009 says it best:

from Gardener’s Supply Company