Working with his father and devoted colleagues, Peter Koppert laid the groundwork for using beneficial microorganisms in production, thus forever changing greenhouse crop protection.
With a heavy heart, today, the management of Dutch-based biocontrols supplier Koppert shares the news of the passing of the company’s co-founder Peter Koppert hailed as a grand champion of biological crop control. Koppert passed away on 20 June 2023 after a short illness. He was 73.
Until just a few weeks before his death, Peter remained closely involved with Koppert as a member of the Advisory Board.
Heartbroken management and family state, “With Peter’s passing, we lose our dedicated founder, a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and brother. His death leaves a deep void in our hearts.
“Peter fulfilled a special role in Koppert’s history. He got involved in his father’s cucumber business at a young age. Together, they searched for chemical pest control alternatives and found a natural solution. With great enthusiasm, Peter and his wife implemented biological pest control in their cucumber crop and the greenhouses of growers nearby. Soon after his father became ill, Peter took over the business and focused entirely on producing and selling natural solutions. Following his father’s passing, Peter, his brother Paul, and their cousin Henri carried on the business. Under their leadership, our company evolved into the pioneering global market leader it is today.
“With his determination, vision, and unwavering passion, Peter left an unforgettable impression not only on our company but many of us as individuals. His legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him and worked with him.
“We will remember Peter as a visionary and a warm personality. Peter showed that a company is also about interpersonal connections and about making a positive impact on the world. He managed to integrate this warmth into the DNA of our company, something that our employees continue to appreciate and cherish. His vision and passion have shaped Koppert and will remain a source of inspiration for all of us.”
Peter Koppert is survived by his wife, Diny, children and grandchildren.