Obituaries
The fresh produce industry veteran and IFPA executive, widely remembered as a steadying, compassionate leader and longtime industry advocate, has died following a battle with cancer.
The California congressman is being remembered by ag groups throughout the state for his steadfast advocacy for rural California and agriculture.
Baldor Specialty Foods credits him with being the first to bring now-common items like endive and French shallots to the U.S.
He had served as a past chair of the board for United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association among other leadership roles.
Jonathan W. Field, who worked on behalf of the state’s tree fruit, nut and leafy greens industries, died Aug. 5.
Brad Moorer, who died unexpectedly Aug. 7, is remembered as a strong advocate for the domestic berry grower.
Barnes, a leader of the North Carolina sweetpotato industry, died July 12. A memorial service will be held July 20.
With a career spanning more than six decades, the potato supplier says its former president’s vision and leadership helped grow the company’s reputation.
With the passing of Advisory Board Member William Sheridan, Chestnut Hill Farms honors the industry leader and trusted adviser for his integrity and dedication.
The longtime citrus and stone fruit buyer was known for his passion for the industry, mentorship and kindness.
The organization said Scott Marboe whose leadership and mentorship helped shape the Northwest tree fruit industry, will be remembered for uplifting and inspiring those around him.
Williams, who had battled cancer, joined the company in 2023 as vice president of sales.
The Fresno, Calif.-based company announced the death of Levon Ganajian, its vice president of retail relations, who worked for the company for more than 10 years.
Leaders, innovators and industry stalwarts were among those who died in 2023, with their peers remembering their professional contributions and impact on the produce industry.
Vangelos, whose career spanned over 50 years and included leadership roles for companies and industry organizations, died Sept. 5 at age 92.
The commission’s vice president of marketing, who dedicated nearly 26 years to the industry, died Nov. 24 after battling cancer.
Don Valpredo, 85, co-founded Country Sweet Produce, grower-packer-shipper of the Bako Sweet brand of sweetpotatoes.
David and Jean Warren, founders of Pompano Beach, Fla.-based Central American Produce Inc., have died.
Tom “Tommy” Oliveri, who worked at Western Growers in various roles for almost 40 years, has died.
Harold Weisfeld, founder of Fruit Distributing Corp. of California, Commerce, has died.
Douglas Rockstead, an engineer for Tri-Pak Machinery Inc., Harlingen, Texas, has died.
Mario Basciani, a mushroom grower known for his tireless work ethic and founder of Basciani Foods, has died.
Patrick McTavish, who worked in sales and executive positions at eastern fruit companies, has died.
Nace Brian Cohen, who founded Progressive Produce in Los Angeles in 1967 with Charles Gilb, as a potato and onion company, has died.
A Celebration of Life service has been scheduled for Frieda Rapoport Caplan, who died Jan. 18.
(UPDATED, Jan. 21) Produce industry pioneer Frieda Rapoport Caplan, 96, has died.