The New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association announced that charter member Fred (Skip) Gallione recently passed away. He served as president and past president of the association for multiple terms and was a fixture on its board of directors for almost 50 years.

The association referred to Gallione as a "great friend" and called attention to his great knowledge of the industry, his leadership skills and also his kindness.

"Skip was a wonderful human being and could bring humor to any situation," praised Gail Woolcott, the director of operations for NJLCA. "I can't find the words to express how deeply he will be missed. But we do know that Skip led a full life, with friends and family all around."

At the time of this writing, the details of the final arrangements had yet to be publicized.