Paul says that he has been impressed by the energy and effort, as well as the group enthusiasm of the Tree Friends volunteers. A relatively new member, he displays that same enthusiasm – “We have so much more to do!”

A long-time member and tree enthusiast, Becky and her husband have owned a varietal tree farm since 1980 in Vigo County. Becky enjoys team pruning and recently served as Chair of the Tree Friends Tribute Tree program as well as a Member-at-Large.

Diane Schlegel and her husband Bob moved from New Jersey to West Lafayette in 2018.  One of her many volunteer roles in New Jersey was at the 11-acre Glen Rock (NJ) Arboretum where she was a Board member and trail guide.  Diane’s interest and commitment to the care and preservation of trees led her to volunteering with the West Lafayette Tree Friends. In addition to her role as secretary, she attends pruning sessions and is a member of the Urban Leaves newsletter committee.

As a longtime resident of West Lafayette and a Purdue University retiree, Bill wanted to be more physically active, and discovered West Lafayette Tree Friends offered opportunity for that and more. Joining in 2012, Bill got involved in the overall operation with other volunteers. He has been delighted with the camaraderie and fun the group offers while maintaining a strong commitment to helping our urban forest!

Bill Gass joined WLTF in 2019 and chairs the Communications Committee. His interests in native plants and trees led to his joining Tree Friends. He enjoys the fellowship and physical activity of tree pruning. He is an avid bicyclist and enjoys exploring the local roadways. He and his wife Shari, a well-respected yoga instructor, have two adult daughters, Melissa and Caroline.

Bob enjoys nature and the outdoors in general, but especially finds the product of pruning quite satisfying. “Each tree has its own shape, and to keep that shape is a blessing.”

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As a graduate of Purdue University in Public Horticulture, Bryce is the Community Forestry and Greenspace Planner for the City of West Lafayette. He works with community coalitions and volunteers to beautify West Lafayette, oversees the urban forest, and development of public greenspaces. He is also the City liaison to the West Lafayette Tree Friends.