How to Honor a Former Coworker in a Meaningful, Lasting Way
How to Honor a Former Coworker in a Meaningful, Lasting Way
What one team did to turn grief into growth - with a Treebute® that lives on.
When someone leaves your workplace, they usually get a farewell lunch or a signed card. But what do you do when they leave this world altogether?
It's a question no one wants to face. And yet, when a colleague passes, the people left behind often feel the loss deeply, even if they struggle to define it. You spent years in meetings together, passed each other in hallways, shared coffee and deadlines and small victories. That kind of presence doesn't disappear quietly.
So what do you give when flowers feel temporary and sympathy cards feel small?
One team found an answer that surprised even them.
What One Team Did for Denise
Denise had been a steady, strong presence at Pace Properties for years. Respected. Quietly formidable. When she passed, her coworkers wanted to do something meaningful, but no one was quite sure what that looked like.
One thoughtful colleague reached out to Treebute and organized a Group Tree Gift. It's a simple concept: the whole team contributes toward a living memorial tree planted in someone's honor.
The response was immediate.
Twenty-two coworkers joined in. The goal wasn't just met, it was surpassed. With nearly double the original contributions, Treebute was able to coordinate two trees: one for each of Denise's sisters, living in different states.
In Lakeland, Florida, a Sugar Palm was planted in her memory.
In Columbia, Illinois, a White Kousa Dogwood took root just weeks later.
Each tree now stands in a sister's backyard, a living symbol of the people who remembered Denise and wanted her family to know it.
Why the Updates Mattered
What made the experience especially meaningful were the photos and thank-you messages shared back with contributors.
One of Denise's sisters wrote: "In July, a glorious Sugar Palm was planted in my yard. It's due to grow 15 feet tall. Thank you all for thinking of Denise and our family."
Her other sister in Columbia, IL shared: "It looks beautiful. I'll think of Denise every time I see it."
This wasn't just a transaction. It was a circle of care, closed with images and gratitude, reminding everyone involved that their small contribution added up to something real.
Why Group Memorial Trees Work for the Workplace
If you've ever been the person tasked with organizing "something" after a colleague's passing, you know the awkwardness. What's appropriate? What will the family actually want? How do you include everyone without making it complicated?
A Group Tree Gift solves most of those problems quietly.
- It's tangible and lasting. Unlike flowers that fade or generic donations, a tree grows for decades. It becomes a place to visit, to sit beside, to remember.
- It's shared and inclusive. Everyone can contribute, regardless of budget. Whether someone gives $10 or $100, they're part of the gift.
- It's simple to organize. You provide a few details. Treebute creates a private contribution page. You share the link with coworkers. We handle the rest, from tree selection to delivery to planting coordination.
- It closes the loop. Contributors receive updates and photos, so they know exactly where their gift landed and what it became.
Whether you're in HR, leading a team, or simply the person who cares enough to take action, a Group Tree Gift offers a way to support grieving families without overstepping.
When You're Ready to Organize One
In times of loss, people often don't know what to say. But sometimes the most powerful gestures don't need words. They simply grow.
Starting a Treebute Group Tree Gift takes just a few minutes. You reach out, we set up the page, you share it with others, and together, something lasting takes root.
If you're wondering how to honor a former coworker in a way that's thoughtful, lasting, and sincerely appreciated, consider planting something that lives on.
START A GROUP TREE GIFT
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I organize a group memorial gift for a coworker?
Contact Treebute with a few basic details about the person being honored. We'll create a private contribution page you can share with colleagues via email or workplace messaging. Contributors can give any amount, and we handle everything from start-to-finish.
- What is a Group Tree Gift?
A Group Tree Gift is a memorial tree funded by multiple contributors. It allows coworkers, friends, or family members to pool contributions toward a single meaningful gift, rather than sending individual flowers or cards.
- How much does a Treebute Group Tree Gift cost?
Varies based on geographic location (state, rural vs urban, etc.). Groups typically set a goal of $950 based on the tree options they'd like to give, and contributions of any size are welcome. If the goal is exceeded, upgrades or additional trees and memorial products can be arranged.
- Do contributors receive updates?
Yes. Contributors receive photos and messages once the tree is planted, closing the loop and showing exactly where their gift took root.
- Can the tree be planted in another state?
Typically, yes. Treebute coordinates delivery and planting across the country in the lower 48. You need to know the family's address for the Care Package. We work with them when they are ready to ensure their tree gets planted in the spot they chose in their yard.