Book of Memories for John M. Minutaglio

Condolence From Everly and Marissa

Wed, 03 Jul 2013 11:11:55 EDT

Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers for everyone that Dad John Mini had left behind, Jesse and Bea we pray for strength and fortitude, Sue Ann all the love and comfort and for the rest of the family serenity and peace in this time of our sadness. We will never forget you Dad and we will always love you.

Condolence From Marilyn and Jeffrey Nyman

Tue, 02 Jul 2013 19:18:13 EDT

Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved John.

Condolence From Mahdi Chaney

Sat, 29 Jun 2013 02:45:42 EDT

One can never put into words what it feels like to be in the presence of greatness. It is a vibe that you receive only when speaking with a select few human beings on this Earth. From my several interactions with John, I can vividly remember the words of wisdom passed on about entrepreneurship, knowledge about the realities of raising a family and his somewhat skewed love for New York professional sports teams. All in all, we are all thankful to have been blessed with such a great spirit.

Story shared: To you, Uncle Mini

Sat, 29 Jun 2013 00:10:25 EDT

Dearest family, Even though I am unable to be there with you, I’m certain your hearts are filled with the many family and friends that have been touched by your father, your husband, my uncle, Uncle Mini. It is with my deepest regard that I have come to write this; however, in consideration and thought of dear Uncle Mini, my spirits lift and laughter escapes at the memories stored within. So, dear Uncle Mini, in thinking of you often, I chuckle hearing of you drinking breast milk when I was an infant. Yuk! Or smile thinking on Bill’s slight recollection of sailing on your boat or you taking him out to fish. You must have had, or at least exhibited a good amount of patience. Like the time I hair sprayed your super sweet daughter’s hair to be Jersey high. Oh my! Oh the patience! Uncle Mini, I most appreciated how you were always so thoughtful and sincere listening to other’s tales and adventures. You held an honest interest and seemed to whisper silent encouragement when I would share about my travels. However, it was you who seemed the adventurous one, though you may not have considered yourself as such, but I often seemed to be hearing of, what I would consider, grand adventures. Occasionally, between my ventures, I would pop in to the Armonk home, unannounced or with short announcement, and was always welcomed to good food and great company, and maybe a glass of wine! So, to you, and living your life as an adventure in parenting, business, and passions! To you. To thinking of you.

Condolence From Kathy Johnson Fediw

Fri, 28 Jun 2013 16:19:32 EDT

What a sad time it is, to lose such a great man and such a respected leader in his industry. I've known John for many years, seeing him at nearly every interiorscape conference held throughout the country. He was one of the sharpest businessmen I knew and yet always had time to stop and talk with you. He's been an inspiration to many of us and will be truly missed. To his family, thank you for sharing John with us and may God bless you and keep you. John, enjoy your forever-time in that great big conservatory in the sky and we'll see you again soon. -Kathy Fediw

Condolence From Joe Cialone

Fri, 28 Jun 2013 14:07:20 EDT

Our heartfelt condolences to all of the John Mini Family, including the many loyal employees who have worked with John over all these years. The industry shares your grief. We have all lost a good friend and a pioneer who set a high standard for our industry. I so clearly remember those early days of our businesses and loading Sue Ann's car as she came to Tropic Greenhouses to pick up plants. John's leadership and contributions to the industry will be felt for a long, long time. Please know that we are thinking about you and that we will miss our great friend. Lenore and Joe Cialone

Condolence From Patricia Ciffone

Fri, 28 Jun 2013 08:13:34 EDT

I am so sorry I won't be able to attend. I am so sorry for your loss and your family are in my prayers. John was a wonderful man and heaven received an Angel!

Memorial Candle lit by

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 16:34:16 EDT

Alice Hernandez

Condolence From Nick Gerbasi

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 12:06:36 EDT

John, I can think back over forty years when we first met. You were struggling starting a new business. I always looked forward to my visits to your offices. Each day started with a chat over coffee,we always had lunch, first in City Island then in Congers. Those meeting were always for business but we always took time to talk about family,politics, fly fishing and golf. I am so proud of being part of your building that small business into the most respected in your industry. I am blessed to have had you as my friend. Going to Congers will never be the same Nick

Condolence From Hank DePerro

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:50:53 EDT

Dear John Mini Family and Organization, My sincere condolences for the loss of John. I had the privilege to work with John for the last 20 years as a customer. While we enjoyed a great client-vendor relationship, I looked at John as more of a colleague and friend. He always had our best interests in mind and was always proactive in managing our garden and landscaping. He was a truly dedicated professional who was ahead of his time in the world of horticulture and interior landscaping. I will truly miss John. May he rest in peace.

Condolence From Jo Ann Johnston, Jo Ann Johnston & Co.

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:48:03 EDT

John will be greatly missed, forever cherished and always remembered by those of us in the Interiorscape Industry.

Condolence From Kevin & Eileen Kelly

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:46:50 EDT

Our condolences to all of John's family and friends. We first met John nearly twenty years ago and were inspired by the success he created in life. His writings in Interiorscape magazine challenged us to reach new heights and to attach meaning to work. He will truly be missed.

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:13:47 EDT

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:13:47 EDT

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:13:47 EDT

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:13:47 EDT

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:09:07 EDT

Christmas Party dinner

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 09:49:08 EDT

Tom and Mini

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 09:49:08 EDT

Another great catch

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 09:49:08 EDT

Jesse, Sue, and Mini

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Thu, 27 Jun 2013 09:49:08 EDT

Jesse and Mini - 2009

Story shared: The Other Shoe

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 21:00:58 EDT

We all have times in our lives when we wait to see if/when the other shoe is going to fall. I shared some of those with John. There were scary ones… Wondering if that truck driver on the Jersey turnpike was just one or one of many trying to run us over as we hitch-hiked to DC….later on that trip wondering again if we could continue to avoid the gas and stay unhurt. The night Andy got caught, wondering if we were next…..then it was my turn and everyone wondered….who knew that this was an end and yet a beginning for three entrepreneurs? There were ones filled with great expectations… The months, weeks, days, then hours as we waited for Liz, Jessie, Ben, John, Veronica, Mark, Dominic. There were many in between those early days and now….then there was this one. It was one of those shoes that hung there for both a moment and an eternity. We all held our collective breathe, knowing it would…and then it did. Darn shoes. I’m glad he got to one last Yankee game. John, you were one of the very few who called me Sally and knew why it was reserved for those closest to me. Your legacy looms large in all of us who knew you and who’s life you touched. Our world is a better place because you were in it. As was our little joke on your birthday….you have once again gone ahead as the scout. Unlike those days it will be at an unknown time when we will all catch up and this time we can rejoice in the reunion. Truly for me a love lost. Sal

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Wed, 26 Jun 2013 17:24:00 EDT

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Wed, 26 Jun 2013 17:22:58 EDT

Condolence From Barb Helfman

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 16:49:33 EDT

My condolences to all of John's Family and Friends. I've known John for over 30 years and I've spent the past few days remembering. John was one of the true pioneers in our Interiorscape industry. We both had the privilege of writing for Interiorscape Magazine. He was generous to a fault in sharing his expertise and wisdom on those pages. Many an interiorscaper benefited from his wisdom. I would also see John at Industry Meetings several times a year and when He held a meeting at his new facility we all shared in his success. Story: One year we were both at a meeting in San Diego and stopped to sheare a drink. John told me he needed to come up with a new name for his business since he was now combining Interior and Exterior. I gave him the suggestion of John Mini Distinctive Landscapes. Tons of memories all good. John left his mark and we in the industry owe him great tribute and thanks. God Bless. Barb Helfman

Condolence From Denise Eichmann, ambius

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 14:07:50 EDT

John will be missed by all of us who represent the interior landscape industry. We honor him as an industry leader, a fierce competitor, and a good friend of all who were graced with his presence at conferences and events. John's presence will live on through the many buildings he "greened" within the city. Our hearts and prayers reach out to his family in their sorrow as we all grieve his loss.

Condolence From Tom Lias

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 11:34:16 EDT

This morning I just recieved the news of the passing of John Mini the founder and owner of the iconic interior landscape company John Mini Distinctive Landscapes in Long Island NY. I am personally saddened with this lost and my heart goes out to his family, friends, associates and the hundreds of people in the Floral Culture industry which feels this loss. I have known John for over 30 years. It was always my pleasure to be in his company. His vision as a true interior landscaper was unmatched. His thoughts, observations and opinons were priceless. One the the tallest trees in the forest has fallen and will never be replaced. May peace come to those who loved him in the memories he has left behind. I will toast your life John and the great difference you made.

Condolence From Ken O'Brien

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 09:15:04 EDT

Condolences to everyone who was close to John. I had the pleasure of working with JMIL as a partner on a large number of accounts serviced in the Metro area. John was always a gentleman and I knew his word was his bond. The interiorscape industry will truly miss this pioneer. John Mini was a giant.

Condolence From Maggie Conway McGillicuddy

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 06:28:58 EDT

My life is what it is because of the time I spent working at JMIL on City Island. John, it was an honor working with you. My deepest condolences to family and friends.

Condolence From David Lindoerfer

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 06:21:32 EDT

I never Knew the man nor did I ever meet him, but his name was legendary, I send my regrets.

Memorial Candle lit by

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 20:38:59 EDT

Robert Kirke Russell (Flood)

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Tue, 25 Jun 2013 18:27:10 EDT

Mini asked me to run my team building treasure hunt for his entire company. Here's a little secret: Successful companies have a visionary at the top who wants them to do their best. Even though he had recently tore his achilles, he had as much fun as anyone that day.

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Tue, 25 Jun 2013 16:55:48 EDT

another great party for Sue

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Tue, 25 Jun 2013 16:53:16 EDT

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Tue, 25 Jun 2013 16:47:13 EDT

Story shared: Your place in my heart

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 15:51:31 EDT

Loving,smart,supportive,interesting and always fun to be with that is how you will be remembered. Although our relationship began through Sue overtime we had our own connection. It felt a little like being cousins maybe because of our shared heritage and our understanding of "la famiglia". Thank you for all that I know about plants, the Yankee games, giving Tony and I the honor of being Mark's godparents and for the warmth and caring you gave Lynn and Lauren as they were growing up. You will be missed and always loved - Fran

Story shared: What a great picture!

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 15:17:25 EDT

I love this picture and it reminds me of sharing stories about our various travels to Italy. I always looked forward to seeing you at our industry meetings, talking a little business and getting straight to the travel and adventure parts. Well played life my friend! See you down the road as I am sure you will have stories....

Condolence From Richard Parker

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 15:16:57 EDT

John was a competitor and a friend. We have known each other for about 30 years. I had the utmost respect for his abilities, accomplishments and the terrific company he built along with a great and loyal team. His speeches at industry events were inspiring! No matter how experienced you were, one always left with some great new idea he spoke about. His articles in the industry news were just as inspiring! I only knew of his business family and I was always impressed by the quality of people and loyalty he had brought together. He will be missed by all! The industry has lost a great man! Rich Parker

Story shared: Best Baseball Coach a Kid Could Have

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 13:49:48 EDT

My son, Mark Book, had the privilege of being on a baseball team that John coached. For me as Mark's mother, I saw John take a kid and work with him to improve his skills and give him the confidence and encouragement he needed to make him a proud catcher for the team. I will never forget how John worked with the baseball team and made it a postive and joyful experience for everyone. So grateful to him and sorry to hear that he has left us. I will always remember him and his generous spirit and be grateful for knowing him.

Condolence From Lynn Minutaglio-Schmitt

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 09:37:11 EDT

Dear Aunt Sue Ann, Jessica, John and Mark, Uncle John was always so kind and loving to me, I will miss him very much. Please know that our hearts feel your pain and we are here to support you. With Love, Lynn &Jim

Condolence From Margaret Lane

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 08:47:32 EDT

John you were always in my prayers. As my employer I prayed for your success. John you are greatly missed. You were and still are a huge presence. To Mrs Sue Ann Minutaglio, John, Jessica & Mark I will continue to pray for all of you. God bless and keep you.

Condolence From Margaret Monaghan (nee McGillicuddy)

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 07:45:32 EDT

So saddened to hear about John Mini's passing. I worked for John Mini Indoor Landscapes on City Island for 7 yrs back in the 90's and some of my fondest memories come from that time. Some of my closest relationships to this day were formed during my years working for John Mini. My condolences to his family.

Condolence From Lillian Vargas

Tue, 25 Jun 2013 07:22:29 EDT

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John, was a very caring person and I am Thankful to have known him and worked with him. Gone But Not Forgotten.

Condolence From Nicole Minutaglio Corolla

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 19:31:11 EDT

Dear Uncle John, My heart is heavy. I am at a loss for words but filled with memories. I remember your VW van, Christmases at Grandmas and then at your's and Aunt Sue Ann's house, I remember your garden wedding as a little girl. I love your voice, it was always so amazing to me and I remember your loving ways. Rest in peace Uncle John. I wish Aunt Sue Ann, Jessie, John and Mark wonderful memories and the strength of the love you all have. Love, Nicole

Condolence From Terri Keiser (Stockman)

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 18:56:22 EDT

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of need. I remember all the GREAT times at the Hutch family expeditions. Mini was a wonderful man, father and friend. He will be missed. Love to you all. Terri

Condolence From Daniel Prieur

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 18:40:52 EDT

Boss, mentor and friend it has been a pleasure and honor knowing you and working with you. Thank you for the opportunity way back in 1986. You will be GREATLY MISSED Dan

Condolence From Leslie Clegg

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 17:55:05 EDT

GODSPEED!!! With Love

Story shared: A man who made the most if everything

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 16:19:11 EDT

Mini, I still can picture you on the baseball field with a passion for giving any kid with a dream all the knowledge you had. You lived life to the fullest and could accomplish anything you set your mind to. Your spirit for adventure and quest for learning inspired us all. You will be missed and thank you for all you gave. Love, Debbie

Condolence From Vicki

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 15:50:11 EDT

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew John for over 30 years as a 'friendly' competitor in the interior landscape business. We all started out as novices... As the industry grew, so did John and his company. He always had wisdom to share with fledgling companies and in industry magazines. He will be missed.

Story shared: Remembering the "best of times"......

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 15:10:58 EDT

I came to know you, SueAnn, Tommy D., and all the others at the magical time when we believed we could do, be, love, and conquer anything. You were the quiet leader, Dr. Mini, who drew us together and , with SueAnn, kept us together. Even as I have been on the periphery these past 30 or so years, it was such a comfort to know that someone who followed his dreams, really made his dreams come true. It was my very first experience of being accepted for exactly who I was, I was amazed and felt overwhelming happiness. I often tell stories of City Island, the charming plant store, and the experiences we shared, the extremes of happiness and some dramas, all touched me deeply. Even in those days of being 20 something, you had a wisdom, could see things so simply, and could act so securely. Memories of long days at a farm, singing with Sue and and Chris, Sal doing his Mr. Bojangles dance, the coffee houses at Fordham, you were in all of those memories, quietly watching, softly guiding things along. I still see all of us as those innocents and I thank you for sharing that time with me. It is strange that I never really knew you as a grown-up, but I like to think you only grew to be more of that amazing person you were.

Memorial Candle lit by Judith Synkowski

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 12:55:08 EDT

Judy "Irish" Synkowski

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Mon, 24 Jun 2013 11:15:15 EDT

A Nantucket evening

Story shared: 40+ years of friendship

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 11:08:40 EDT

Mini, Over our more than 40 years of friendship, we have shared many experiences and adventures. You always were up for fitting in as much of life's adventures as possible! My favorite memories are of our family times in Nantucket and the annual Christmas parties...and so many more! You will be missed... Love, Eileen

Story shared: The good shepherd

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 10:29:28 EDT

Mini, You were quite simply the model of a man I always try to emulate (save it for the Yankee fan thing). Thank you for your friendship, guidance and the strength you provided to my family at our times of need. You were a tremendous friend to my parents and a shepherd in my own life, in this one and the next. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep". John 10:11. You will be missed.

Story shared: My Pun Pal

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 06:16:18 EDT

Mini , you have always been there in my life to challenge my wit with a series of word plays that made even you groan...you have been our hub and our center. Thank you for your joy in living, your extra efforts to keep us all together in fun and surprises. And for showing us how to live a life that is full in every way.

Story shared: My friend Mini.

Sun, 23 Jun 2013 21:51:39 EDT

My friend Mini, Helped me to find my first job in NYC delivering greens to different florists around NYC. I often caught a ride on the back of his motorcycle from the Bronx to NYC or home along the FDR drive. Those rides were the most scariest rides of my life. John taught me that life on the edge, was life, lived to the fullest. Here is to you my friend to you!

Condolence From Tom Mallouk

Sun, 23 Jun 2013 20:46:13 EDT

John brought us all together as family and friends. Let's honor him by comforting each other in this difficult time.

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Sun, 23 Jun 2013 14:10:39 EDT