Honoring Marty Deggeller, 25th Anniversary Tree Champion

On Saturday, June 18, Canopy friends and supporters gathered for an outdoor birthday bash and fundraiser to celebrate the communities that have nurtured our work along the way and envision how we’ll continue to grow the life-giving urban tree canopy together.
One highlight of this event titled "Deeply Rooted" was honoring tree champions from Canopy's history and across sectors and communities that have lent their unique talents and dedication to plant and care for trees where they are needed the most, nurture young leaders, and advocate for tree-filled neighborhoods.
Marty Deggeller is one of these instrumental tree champions, and he raised a toast to his fellow volunteers and donors that grown the Midpeninsula urban forest for the last 25 years.
About Marty:
It’s doubtful that anybody at Canopy has planted as many trees as Marty Deggeller! Marty joined Canopy as a volunteer and board member in 2000 and has been among the organization’s most dedicated volunteers and impactful leaders ever since. Marty has worn almost every hat that exists at Canopy, from chairing the board and program committee and spearheading projects in the field to keeping the organization’s operations and finances running smoothly behind the scenes.
Marty is both a thinker and a doer, and has lent both talents in spades to keep Canopy’s programs growing and serving the community for decades. He’s been instrumental in seeking out new opportunities for tree planting and community partnership, and has helped secure pivotal funding, including Canopy’s state CAL FIRE grants. Not to mention the famous home-smoked salmon he’s provided for many a Canopy party!
At every event, Marty’s love for planting trees, leading volunteers, and bringing people together stand out through his warm welcome, patient teaching, sunny smile, and ready chuckle.
Marty has done all this alongside hundreds, even thousands of fellow volunteers and donors-many of whom Marty has recruited personally! This group of passionate, generous, and dedicated people have powered Canopy’s work from the very beginning. Their invaluable contributions of time, talent, and treasure continue to inspire and make possible Canopy’s impact today.