Bios of Key Staff

David G. Emms, President and General Manager

David’s interests in horticulture and landscaping began at the young age of 5 in the family garden. By age 12, he had expanded his interest into the local community, where he offered his expertise to neighbours, helping them weed and maintain their lawns and gardens. This later became a summer job and by 18, David was offering full season property maintenance to approximately 15 homeowners in Midhurst.

In 2004, David launched Midhurst Property Service, which focused on serving a client base that was mainly located in and around the Midhurst area. In 2005, the business expanded to service clients in Barrie and surrounding areas and today serves clients from north of Toronto all the way up to the Muskoka region.

“I think what I have enjoyed the most about being a landscape contractor is all the great people that I have met, worked for and continue to work for. They look to me to deliver something special, whether that’s as simple as maintaining their lawn or as complex as designing and creating a unique new outdoor living space. There’s no better feeling than the one you get when you set foot on someone’s property one day, and leave as a friend the next.”

“I have provided my services to a lot of great people and I’m thankful to those who gave “the new guy” a chance in the early days of the company. For me, it’s all about leaving you with a beautiful property and a smile on your face! I have always been a firm believer in doing the job right the first time. Quality has and will always be our first priority at Midhurst Property Service.”

Emily Magnusson, Operations Manager

Emily has worked in the landscape industry since 2005 and graduated from Seneca College in the Environmental Landscape Management Program in 2008. Emily’s strong passion for the outdoors and natural environments has played a major part in her decision to launch a career in landscaping.

“As a child, I always loved being outdoors and getting my hands dirty. I think that’s a part of my childhood that has never left me. I decided to pursue my career in a green industry because of my love of the outdoors. It is refreshing and energizing to be able to work in the outdoor environment every day! For me, there is nothing more rewarding than putting in a long day working out in the sun.”

“When I came to work for Midhurst Property Service, I knew it would be a great fit! I enjoy working with David and the other staff members because I think we make a great team. I look forward to making sure our staff is top notch and our product is the best!”

Ralph Opdenkelder, Landscape Manager/Designer

Ralph has been working in the landscaping industry since 1989 and has designed and installed over a thousand landscape projects from Toronto’s Beaches neighbourhood to Collingwood and as far north as the Muskokas.

“My passion for this industry comes from having the opportunity to listen to a client’s wish list and from that, delivering a design that exceeds their expectations. After the design has been refined, we install the finished product, ensuring it is both functional and beautiful. We want to make sure it changes the look and feel of the client’s home and property in a dramatic way. For me, it’s also very important to create different features so each project is customized based on a client’s unique requirements.”

“What I really like about working at Midhurst Property Service is working directly with David and experiencing his passion for the industry. I was excited to join the team at Midhurst Property Service and look forward to helping grow the business together.”