Alex Shigo, born on August 5, 1930, in Pennsylvania, was destined to make a significant impact in the field of arboriculture. His curiosity about trees began at a young age, exploring the forests near his childhood home and marveling at the wonders of the natural world. This early fascination with trees laid the foundation for his future career as a biologist and plant pathologist.
After graduating from high school, Shigo enlisted in the United States Air Force Band during the Korean War, where he honed his musical talents as a clarinetist. Despite his love for music, Shigo's passion for trees never wavered. After completing his military service, he pursued his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at West Virginia University, a decision that would shape the course of his professional life.
Upon earning his Ph.D., Shigo joined the United States Forest Service as a biologist and plant pathologist. It was here that he conducted groundbreaking research on tree decay, revolutionizing the field of arboriculture. His studies on tree biology led to new understandings of how trees grow, develop, and decay, earning him the title of "the father of modern arboriculture."
In addition to his research, Shigo was a prolific writer, publishing numerous articles and books on trees and tree care. He founded Shigo and Trees, Associates LLC, a successful publishing business dedicated to distributing his writings and sharing his knowledge with arborists and tree enthusiasts worldwide.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Shigo was a devoted husband to his wife Marilyn and a loving father to their daughter, Judy Shigo Smith. Family was always a priority for Shigo, and he found joy in spending time with his loved ones and creating lasting memories together.
Alex Shigo's contributions to arboriculture continue to impact the field today, inspiring future generations of biologists, arborists, and tree lovers. His dedication to understanding trees and promoting proper tree care has left a lasting legacy that will forever be remembered in the world of forestry.
In conclusion, Alex Shigo's passion for trees, his groundbreaking research, and his commitment to sharing knowledge have solidified his place as a pioneer in the field of arboriculture. His legacy lives on through his writings, his teachings, and the countless trees he cared for throughout his career.
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