John A. Mortensen
University of Florida researcher who developed first seedless grape dies at 85
Mortensen did grape-related research for 30 years at the university's Central Florida Research and Education Center in Leesburg. He developed several new types of grapes — varieties that were bred to thrive in Florida's tropical climate.
His work helped pave the way for Florida's grape-growing and wine-making industries, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Mortensen, who died of a staph infection at Cornerstone Hospice in Tavares, was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame in 1993.
"He was one of the major figures that moved viticulture forward in Florida," said Dennis Gray, a UF professor and biologist who had worked for years with Mortensen in Lake County.
Gray said a lot of people likely do not realize the extent of his success or know about the international acclaim his work drew. A quiet, unassuming man, he was not one to talk much about himself.
Mortensen's wife of 57 years, Dorothy "Dottie" Mortensen, said his humbleness came from a life of trying to please God. Christianity was a key part of their lives, she said.
In addition to his wife, Mortensen is survived his daughter, Cynthia Mortensen of Tavares; brother, James Mortensen of Uvalde, Texas; and grandson, Kevin Flinn of Leesburg.
Source: orlandosentinel.com