Memorial tribute honours floriculture giant January 20, 2021 Dr. Harold F. Wilkins. The American Floral Endowment (AFE) has announced a new memorial tribute in memory of Dr. Harold F. Wilkins, Professor Emeritus of the Department of Horticulture, University of Minnesota, who passed away on January 7. Wilkins was a major force in the floriculture world, creating ideas, generating research, and mentoring students that profoundly influenced industry and academic directions. The $1,000 fund was established by Royal Heins, one of his students and professional colleagues. A lover of flowers all his life, he was born in Cobden, Union County, Ill. His entire family, including his parents J. Harley and Pauline Wilkins, was involved in the horticulture business.