On September 17, 2024, the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory and many long-time volunteers, members, and past staff of the Conservatory gathered to wish their friend John Seaton farewell as he will be leaving Oak Park to move west to be with family.
John worked as Conservatory Manager at the Oak Park Conservatory from 1984 – 2008. Not only was John instrumental in founding The Friends, but he also provided tireless support for our Plant Sale, education programs, and numerous enhancements to the quality of the plant collection at the Conservatory.
The Rubinstein Room was filled with founding board members, Oak Park River Forest Garden Club friends, and fellow PDOP staffers who worked with John over the years. The stories flowed as guests shared fond and sometimes wild memories of their time with John in our community.
FOPCON was founded in 1986 and the Oak Park Conservatory is now 95 years old. Many of you may have stories to share of our beloved treasure in this community. Please email our Executive Director, Judy Klem, at [email protected] to share your memories of the Conservatory with our community.
