John Heaton: Owner

John has been at Knupper Nursery since 1968. He started buying the business in 1974 and took full ownership in 1987.  John has extensive knowledge of plants and plant diseases, and is our in-house lawn expert. He is a past president of the Illinois Nurseryman’s Association, of Palatine Rotary, and of the Palatine Chamber of Commerce.  He is an Illinois Certified Nurseryman with a certification in nursery.

John grew up in Nebraska as the son of a gladiola farmer, helping both grow and sell gladiola bulbs and flowers.  He then went to Michigan State and graduated with a degree in Ornamental Horticulture.  After 8 years as a pilot in the US Air Force, he came to Knupper’s.  When John is not working, he likes to play tennis and to travel.