August 16, 2016
In Memoriam — Jes Petersen
Jes Petersen
The business he founded and loved posted a tribute on its Facebook page following Petersen’s passing.
“It is with full and heavy hearts we pay tribute to the founder of Petersen’s Turf Farms – Jes Petersen. In 1969, he took a chance for his family and purchased what was then a small nursery farm. With hard work and perseverance, he grew it into one of the most prominent sod farms in eastern Ontario. He created a place where he could teach his family work ethic, life skills and knowledge all while providing them with a more prosperous future. Jes’ drive and ambition gave this minimally educated Danish immigrant the ability to overcome all odds and create something from nothing. Through trial and error, mistakes and success, hunches and instincts he was able to develop the skills and knowledge to grow beautiful mineral turf grass.”
Friend and industry colleague, Joan Johnston said Petersen was “a great guy, a very generous supporter of our industry and community.”
In lieu of flowers, donations made to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute or the Winchester District Memorial Hospital would be most appreciated by the family.