As the site coordinator for the Granby Community Gardens, I’ve worked with all sorts of volunteers, but none as free-spirited, solution-driven and hard-working as Mark Case.

While I was very saddened to hear of his passing, I will think of him with a smile while tackling any new chore at the gardens. It was always a treat spending time with him.

He planted a full bed of summer squash and grew artichokes and Thai peppers — all a first at the Granby gardens and all because of his “Let’s try it!” attitude.

We will all enjoy the garlic that he and his wife, Jeannie, planted at the end of last fall.

The gardens are a better place because of the time Mark spent here. Rest in peace, my friend!