Karl P. Heinz

Karl P. Heinz, age 80, of Needham passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 29, at the Mary Ann Morse Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born in West Roxbury and raised in the house his grandfather built. Following his graduation from Boston Technical High School, he attended Northeastern University for two years to study Chemical Engineering. Of his time at Northeastern, Karl said, "It didn't work out too well as I spent too much time on the production crew of the drama club."

Karl was a talented man who spent a brief period of time working in the corporate world at the Newton based Norton Company (the developer of the process for freeze-drying orange juice for Minute Maid). But ultimately, he decided to return to his first love, working outdoors. He developed his passion for trees and nature while working at Appleknoll Farm in Millis and at the Family Tree Garden Center in West Roxbury, where he had worked while in high school. Several years later, he became Head Groundskeeper at Mass Bay Community College. While there, he enrolled in a Horticulture degree program. He graduated Phi Theta Kappa with an Associate in Science Degree.

With this degree in hand he took a job with the Town of Sherborn. His responsibilities included Land Management Development Supervisor, Tree Warden and Insect and Pest Control Supervisor. During his tenure, he became a Certified Arborist with the Massachusetts Arborists Association and the International Society of Arboriculture. Karl retired from his work for the town of Sherborn after an 18-year career. 

Karl was an active member of his church, First Parish in Needham Unitarian Universalist. His First Parish and Needham community will remember him for his many roles in the congregation and within the town. He volunteered for over 30 years at the Homegrown Coffeehouse, enjoying folk and acoustic music. He was a long term member of the Property Committee, and the First Parish Singers. Karl volunteered for many years on the prep team for Generic Ministry; and during Rev. Robert Wolf's sabbatical, he led a memorable Earth Day worship service. Karl spearheaded many annual spring flower (impatiens) fundraising events. And he was long term volunteer and board member of the Needham Community Farm.

Karl was an integral part of the First Parish community and the Needham Community Farm, and he will be deeply missed. There will be a small, private graveside service in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Joslin Diabetes Center, One Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215.