If you’ve spent any time around the Douglas County Master Gardener Program over the past two decades, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Lewis Struthers. And if you have, you probably walked away having learned something about bees, berries, gardens, or simply the joy of being curious. This year, the program is honoring Lewis with the prestigious Irene Seppanen Founders Award for Excellence in Horticulture Outreach and Education, and it’s hard to imagine a more deserving recipient.

Lewis joined the Master Gardener program back in 2006, and since then, he’s racked up an incredible 1,185 volunteer hours. But these weren’t just hours spent pulling weeds or sorting supplies, Lewis poured his time into teaching, mentoring, and creating hands-on learning experiences that stuck with people long after the class ended.

A lifelong beekeeper, Lewis brought the magic of honey bees wherever he went. He credits his passion to a long family line of beekeepers dating back to his great-grandfather, and especially to his grandmother, who was his biggest teacher. That early inspiration blossomed into decades of sharing bee knowledge with learners of all ages. Over the years, he taught more than 193 classes, making complicated concepts feel approachable and fun. Ask anyone who attended a bee yard demonstration or saw him show up at a school with honeycomb and beeswax, Lewis doesn’t just teach; he sparks curiosity.

You’d also find him at community staples like the Ask a Master Gardener booth at the Douglas County Fair or the Alexandria Farmers Market, always ready with practical advice and an easy smile. His consistent presence helped connect the Master Gardener program with countless community members.

Lewis also played key roles in beloved local traditions like the Tour of Gardens and the Annual Bus Tour. And behind the scenes, he served on the Master Gardener leadership board, helping guide the program with his thoughtful perspective and deep well of experience.

His expertise reached far beyond garden gates. Lewis has been interviewed for both radio and newspaper stories, helping the public understand issues like colony collapse disorder. He even authored newspaper articles and showcased his beautiful blueberry gardens on Prairie Yard & Garden on Pioneer Public Television. And true to his experimental spirit, he developed his own apple varieties, his favorite, fittingly, is the “Struthers Honey.”

Before his gardening chapter, Lewis graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School and enjoyed a long career as a family physician. He and his wife, Ginger, raised six children and now have thirteen grandchildren who no doubt benefit from his curiosity and kindness.

Today’s award recognizes not just what Lewis has done, but who he is—generous, enthusiastic, and committed to helping others learn and grow.