David Stouffer, in Whittier, noticed that his big Sago palm was ready to burst on July 27th, and came back to stand beside it in his garden. Phil had shown Dave how to propagate these sagos some time ago, and he suddenly had a strong vision of Phil. Dave remembered the ribald laughter with Phil over a series of x-rated botany lessons about these exotic cycads. Later that night, Phil passed away in his sleep.
"I liked Phil Keeler so much. He was an old-time Californian, the real deal. Genuine. I wish I had been able to spend lots more time and learn even more from Phil. He was my good friend!" The enthusiasm of the Santa Ana gardener always was bubbling over. His orchids and hot house, staghorn ferns and cycads were breathtakingly fecund. No one else had such a green thumb. He will be missed by many.
No comments:
Post a Comment