Legendary landscaper David J. Frank, founder and CEO/Chairman of David J. Frank Landscape Contracting, Inc., one of the largest landscape contractors in the nation, passed away February 9 at the age of 69.

An entrepreneur at the early age of 9, Frank began mowing lawns in his East Side of Milwaukee neighborhood.  By 12, he was already caring for more than 30 neighboring homes.  He liked to boast that he was the only one at school who had a Federal ID number and business insurance.

Over the next five decades, the hard-working, lawn-mowing whiz kid developed into a sharp, gregarious businessman whose company grew and prospered.  Today, the award-winning company currently employs more than 300 professionals working out of six branch locations throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

A pioneer in the industry, Frank originated advances in the industry by creating in-house video training and marketing programs, proactive service strategies, and safety initiatives.  His experience and expertise made him a sought-after speaker for industry seminars and publications.

Frank was equally as passionate about his employees as he was about landscaping. He led the formation of the company’s “Great Place to Work” program, which encourages professional development and positive recognition. Always a visionary, Frank and his son, company President David R. Frank, spent the past three years working diligently to develop the next generation of leaders to ensure the organization’s success. With that goal, the company recently hired landscape industry expert John Joestgen as its Chief Operating Officer.

“My father’s mission, to delight clients through great customer service, is strongly woven into our culture and will remain so moving forward,” said David R. Frank.