Richard “Dick” Allen Symms, who led and grew the family business, Symms Fruit Ranch, Caldwell, Idaho, died July 13. He was 84.
Symms grew up in Idaho and joined the U.S. Air Force after graduating from the University of Idaho in 1957. He was honorably discharged in 1961, according to an obituary.
Symms and wife Nancy settled in Caldwell and he joined the family business. He helped Symms Fruit Ranch grow into the largest fruit company in Idaho, according to the obituary. He would fly his Cessna across the country to meet with buyers, and established an export business, shipping to more than 35 countries in Europe and Asia, according to the obituary.
He served on numerous local, regional and federal organizations and was active in the community, serving in positions at the Idaho-Eastern Oregon Fruit and Vegetable Association, the state’s apple and cherry commissions, the Northwest Horticultural Council and numerous local business and church groups, according to the release.
A graveside service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Mountain on July 17 at Canyon Hill Cemetery in Caldwell. The service will be broadcast live at through the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial to The Hope House in Marsing, Idaho, and Deer Flat Church in Caldwell.
