Pollinator garden dedicated as tribute for late florist Marie Bonaminio

A new community garden in Lorain was created with the intention to preserve the environment and a lifetime full of memories.

The pollinator garden, which was planted last fall on the northeast corner of West Erie and Broadway avenues, was dedicated on May 21 in honor of the late florist Maria Bonaminio.

It will be officially known as the Marie Bonaminio Memorial Pollinator Garden.

“Today we dedicate this park to Marie and we honor her for all her generosity and civic participation,” said Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley. “Marie was proud to be a Lorainite, and we’re all ‘Lorain Proud’ of her and all she accomplished.”

Bonaminio, owner of the former Bonaminio’s Lorain Flower Shop & Greenhouse, died in February 2021 at age 95.

Her son and daughter-in-law Jim and Joani Bonaminio were some of the family who attended the dedication.

“We’re so honored and proud to be a part of this community,” said Joani Bonaminio. “I know how much Mom loved this city, and the city loved her back.

“This really will live on and continue the legacy that she started many years ago.”

The garden itself hasn’t begun to bloom yet, but Bradley said they are excited for what is to come.

“It really hasn’t started to bloom yet but we have buds and that’s a good sign,” he said.

Bradley said they hope to expand the garden area with blacktop and a swing.

“This is going to be the most famous corner in the City of Lorain,” he said. “People that come back here are going to visit, take pictures and enjoy the garden; this is a special spot in honor of a special lady.”

Jackie Conrad, a Sandusky City Schools science teacher whose Lorain home is a pollinator way station, said this garden will be a huge benefit to the local environment.

“We’re learning more about insect conservation and how important it really is to have respect for all living things,” she said. “I hope this is one step in continuing to do this in other areas because it benefits everyone.”