GLFF Hall of Fame

Great Lakes Floral Foundation Inducts Bob Patterson CF into Hall of Fame!

On the evening of October 28, 2025, the Great Lakes Floral Foundation inducted Bob Patterson CF, owner of Patterson’s Flowers in Big Rapids, Reed City and Cadillac, MI into the Hall of Fame.

This distinguished recognition honors Bob for his significant contributions to the floral industry, as well as his steadfast support of the Great Lakes Floral Association (GLFA), Great Lakes Floral Foundation (GLFF), and the Great Lakes Floral & Event Expo (GLFEE). Bob has served two terms as president of the GLFA (1996 and 2013–2015) and previously chaired the GLFF, demonstrating a career-long commitment to advancing the floral profession and supporting both fellow florists and his local community. In addition to his professional achievements, Bob is dedicated to the 4-H Great Lakes & Natural Resources Camp, where he has provided leadership for over three decades in various roles.

The event took place in the Kindel Room at the Goei Center in Grand Rapids, MI. Proceedings began at 6:00 p.m. with a reception attended by more than 75 guests who enjoyed appetizers, refreshments, and engaging conversation. The evening was hosted by Hall of Fame member Alice Waterous AIFD, CF, PFCI, and featured presentations from Rodney Crittenden AAF, Doug Vos, Kristi Flatt, Kathy Petz AAF, CF, PFCI, Mary Ann Kutnick, David Martin, Laura Potter-Niesen, Justin Videto, and Amanda Kincade.

Mary Ann Kutnick delighted the crowd with this special poem.

Twas the night in Grand Rapids

We’ve all waited for

To honor our friend

Whom we all adore!

You’re chosen tonight

Join the best of the best

You’re our floral champion

We all can attest!

Your Midwest friends

Were quick to agree

Our group is impressed

And as proud as can be!

We’ve come from Chicago,

Philly… Vegas too,

From Nashville and Atlanta

To celebrate with you!

Your family from Florida

Came to join in the fun

We all wanted to be here

When the party’s begun!

Your great award

2025 Hall of Fame

Great Lakes Floral Foundation

Is why we all came!

For every committee

You’ve volunteered for

The time, the travel,

And so much more.

Your endless desire

To do your best

Your smile and energy

We have all witnessed!

From floral design classes

To summer camp cook,

From Midwest Group Chair

Where ever we look…

There is Bob

To lend a hand

Our faithful friend

Beside us stands

Always a smile

Happy and cheery

Whatever it takes

No rest for the weary!

You so deserve this

We all agree

Congratulations to you, Bob

And the Patterson family

To the Patterson staff

Congrats to you too

Continued success

In all that you do!

Tonight, Deb and your parents

Look down from above

Their hearts filled with pride

Their hearts filled with love

At the conclusion of the evening, Foundation Chair Teresa Cytlak presented Bob with the Hall of Fame medallion and award, commending him as highly deserving. She described him as an individual who consistently works diligently behind the scenes, completes tasks efficiently, and maintains a keen sense of observation.

The Great Lakes Floral Foundation thanks Kennicott Brothers Company (Diamond Presenting sponsor), The Midwest Floral Group and Teleflora (Gold sponsors), and Esprit Miami, FloraCraft, and Norman Smith Enterprises (Friends of the Foundation sponsors). Special thanks to Kristi Flatt, Dan & Carol Cruz for the decor, and Kennicott Brothers Company for providing flowers.

If you would like honor Bob on his induction into the Hall of Fame with a monetary donation you may do so online HERE