Marie Thorne Announces her Retirement from Syngenta

Guelph, Ontario, Canada, December 18, 2017

Senior Turf Specialist, Marie Thorne has announced her retirement from Syngenta Canada Inc. after an outstanding 37-year career serving the turf industry in Canada. Marie will remain in her current role until April 2018.

“There is an entire generation of golf course superintendents who have only known a Canadian golf industry that included Marie’s professionalism, technical expertise and customer focus,” shares David Kuypers, lawn and garden head for Syngenta Canada. “She has been delivering great results for our customers and our business since 1981 and we can’t thank her enough for her contributions.”  

A leader, mentor, and volunteer, Thorne is one of the best in the business. During her Syngenta tenure, she worked tirelessly to elevate the status and skill-set of Canadian golf course superintendents. 

“I had the pleasure of working closely with Marie for more than 20 years and there is no doubt in my mind that she has contributed significantly to the Canadian golf course management profession,” notes James Beebe, golf course manager at Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club. “Marie’s passion for turf grass management and most importantly, her drive to help golf course management professionals succeed has been truly remarkable. Not only has Marie been a great supporter over the years, she is someone I consider a friend and a partner in my success.”

In recognition of her dedication to the industry, Marie was recently awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership from the British Columbia Golf Superintendents Association and was given a special gift of thanks from the Alberta Golf Superintendents Association to commemorate her long-time support of the association’s members. 

“I am really humbled by the outpouring of support from the brotherhood in this great industry,” says Thorne. “It’s been very gratifying working with such great people and I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to make a positive difference for them in their daily maintenance operations and career development.”

“Congratulations on a tremendous career Marie and thank you for 37-years of devoted service to Syngenta Canada,” concludes Kuypers.