Jay Kelly joins J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.

J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. of Boring, Ore., has named Jay Kelly to serve as sales representative for Michigan, Ontario and Quebec. He will succeed Mike Fuhrig, who will retire May 31 after serving JFS customers in the territory since 1984. Dave Sheline, sales manager, announced the appointment.

“Jay’s appointment at this time will ensure a smooth transition for our customers in the Great Lakes region who have benefited from the outstanding service, wisdom and friendship of Mike Fuhrig during his 33 years service to customers in the region,” Sheline said. “We are very grateful to Mike for the many years he represented our company with integrity, wisdom and passion for trees. He set the bar very high for Jay. Our staff looks forward to working with Jay and Mike to ensure a smooth transition and continued exceptional service.”

Kelly, a graduate of Ferris State University, is a longtime nursery professional who served an internship at Monrovia Nursery prior to working at Studebaker, Zelenka and J.C. Bakker nurseries. He formed his own company, Jay Kelly Inc. Horticulture Sales, in 2004. In recognition of his longtime dedication, commitment and service to the nursery industry, he was inducted into the Quarter-Century Club of the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association in 2012.

Jay and his wife, Susan, reside with their children Alyson and Andrew in Gaines, Mich. Jay enjoys running, photography and spending time with family. He may be reached at (313) 618-5126 or at jkellysales@gmail.com

J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. is a wholesale grower of shade, flowering and specialty ornamental trees based in Boring, Oregon. Founded in 1946 by Evelyn and J. Frank Schmidt, Jr., the family-owned company is recognized worldwide as a leader in the development, introduction and production of improved shade and ornamental tree cultivars.