EarthFresh founder recalled for ‘dedication, generosity and unwavering spirit’

EarthFresh founder Tom Hughes Sr. is being remembered for his devotion to family and the produce industry. He died Feb. 28 at age 89.

Hughes’ lifelong passion for the produce industry began in 1963 when he and his business partner, Dave MacKay, established a potato brokerage office at the Ontario Food Terminal. They distributed potatoes shipped primarily by rail from Prince Edward Island, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving business.

Before long, the company known as Mackay and Hughes — which later became EarthFresh —expanded with its own warehouse in Etobicoke, Ontario. With a dedicated rail siding, a fleet of company vehicles and its own repacking line, the business quickly gained success by providing extra services that set it apart. By the time Hughes retired in 1986, Mackay and Hughes had become one of Canada’s largest potato distributors, a testament to his vision, hard work and dedication, according to an obituary on the company’s website.

Even in retirement, Hughes remained passionate about the produce industry and was well known and deeply respected by colleagues, customers and friends.

“His presence at EarthFresh, and Gambles, was always a welcome one — whether you had been with the company for years or had just joined, Tom made sure to greet you with kindness, genuine interest and a warm handshake,” the obituary said.

Beyond his professional achievements, Hughes was a devoted family man to his wife, Catherine; three sons, Tom (Susie), Jeff (Mafie) and Greg (Amanda); two daughters, Mary (Peter) and Sheila; 11 grandchildren — Whitney, Billy-Jean, Jessica (Jordan), Tommy, Hayden, Lydia, Julia, James, Jasper, Willow and Barrett; and three great-grandchildren, Jack, Declan and Madelyn.

“Tom Hughes Sr. leaves behind an incredible legacy, not just in business but in the countless lives he touched,” the obituary said. “His dedication, generosity and unwavering spirit will always be remembered.”

Arrangements and memorial details are available through Smith’s Funeral Homes in Burlington, Ontario.