Loss and Sadness
In Both our Local and Broader Rhododendron Communities
Ken Gibson
On November 27th, 2025
Ken Gibson passed away at the age of 90.
Ken was a long-time member of the Mount Arrowsmith Rhododendron Society, known for the amazing rhododendron garden that he and his wife Dot, built in Tofino.
Set on a small hill in the center of Tofino, their garden was known far and wide. On this 1-acre site, Ken planted over 2000 plants, including 600 different species.
Ken was always a little “larger than life”, promoting the growing of rhododendrons and encouraging others to share his passion for the genus.
Ken and Dot were always generous – sharing plants, cuttings, and touring many, many people through their garden, whether they were locals or tourists.
Ken received the ARS Silver Medal in 1997.
The story of the development of their garden is rather unique and an interesting read.
https://scholar.lib.vt.edu/ejournals/JARS/v41n1/v41n1-gibson.htm
Seamus O’Brien
On December 22, 2025,
Seamus O’Brien passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, at the age of 55.
He was a giant in Irish horticulture and the head gardener at the National Botanic Gardens in Kilmacurragh.
“O’Brien was a person of rare brilliance, a uniquely talented individual possessed of a first-class intellect combined with a passion for plants, an endlessly curious mind, an awe-inspiring work ethic, an impish sense of humour, an adventurous spirit and unfailing generosity.” (The Irish Times)
At the CVRS November 4, 2026, Meeting, Alan Campbell attempted to share a video of Seamus O’Brien’s presentation on the Irish Rhododendron Story. Our technical equipment failed and members did not see this presentation. At this time, we would still have been able to speak directly with Seamus O’Brien had we attempted to do so.
At the CVRS January 7, 2026, Zoom Meeting, Al Cambell shared another Seamus O’Brien presentation. With profound sadness, we realized that on this occasion, Seamus O’Brien would not have been available to answer any questions.
However, an announcement by the OPW, just a few weeks before his death, that funds had been secured for the restoration of Kilmacurragh House – something for which he had steadfastly campaigned for many years – brought him enormous joy.
Click on the link above to read more about Seamus O’Brien.
Terry Allen Richmond
Terry Richmond passed away on December 17, 2025, at the age of 83.
Terry was born and raised in Port Alberni, where he married his childhood sweetheart, Verna, and together they had two children.
His gardening hobby first began with creating a front yard garden with over 350 varieties of roses. When he became interested in rhododendrons, he opened a nursery in his back yard called Rhodomania, and to many became known as “The Rhodo Man”.
He was always researching and sharing his knowledge of species rhododendrons and how to care for them.
Terry was a long-time member of Mount Arrowsmith Rhododendron Society.
He was awarded the prestigious ARS Silver Medal for his generous contributions to the rhododendron community.
Carolyn (Caly) Chester
Caly Chester passed away on Wednesday, January 23, 2026, following a very short experience with a swiftly moving cancer.
Caly was diagnosed with cancer on December 28th and passed away on January 23rd.
Caly’s family was very close and loving and is in shock about their loss. She was looking forward to celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary later this year. Caly was an avid gardener and dog lover. She recognized unusual rhododendrons and companion plants and collected them in her lovely garden.
The family is planning a celebration of life on Caly’s birthday, June 21st, and will provide information later.
Caly will be deeply missed by her family, many friends, and the entire rhododendron community.