Scott Wilson, founder of North East Trees was 89

In 1989, retired LAUSD high school teacher and landscape architect Scott Wilson created North East Trees with a pledge to plant five trees a day for the rest of his life. Helping at-risk Los Angeles youth find jobs was another piece of the plan. In the group's first 20 years, North East Trees' website says, it planted over 50,000 trees, designed and built over 35 mini-parks, trails, street and access gateway improvements, implemented habitat restoration along the Los Angeles River and elsewhere in the county, and "engaged, trained, and employed hundreds of local youth in environmental stewardship."

Today's email announcing Wilson's death:

Dear North East Trees Community,

It is with very heavy hearts and deep regret that we must inform you of the death of Scott Wilson, Founder of North East Trees.

Scott passed away in his sleep at Glendale Adventist Hospital earlier today. His wife, Clarli, and family were with him. He was 89 years old.

Last Saturday, Scott was taking clippings from a tree in his garden, to be used at his church, when he lost consciousness and fell. He was taken to the hospital, by paramedics, and did not regain consciousness. I believe this was how Scott might have chosen his final act to be: in service to his community - and in a tree.

A Memorial to celebrate Scott's life is being planned and an announcement of the date will be made.

Mark B. Kenyon, Executive Director
North East Trees

Wilson lived in Eagle Rock. Here's his page on the NET website.