Florida citrus leader Al Finch dies at 55

Florida citrus leader Al Finch, 55, died June 21.

Finch, president of Florida Classic Growers Inc. in Dundee, Fla., had more than 20 years of experience in the citrus industry.

He was a past president of the Southeast Produce Council, a graduate of the United Fresh Leadership Program and was affiliated with several Florida citrus associations, the company said. 

Darrell Congdon, sales manager for Florida Classic Growers, a subsidiary of Dundee Citrus Growers Association, said Finch had been battling lung cancer for several years.

"He's been both a friend and colleague," Congdon said, noting that Finch's friendship and expertise were highly valued. "He was highly regarded in the citrus industry and in the produce industry."

Many of Finch's customers were also friends, Congdon added.

Gary English, national accounts manager for The Packer publications, said he will miss Finch.

"I was privileged to spend time with him over the years and will miss his positive attitude and friendship," English said. "He had a strong faith and loved his family with all his heart.  And I know he had a positive impact on everyone he worked with in the industry.  We have lost one of the 'good guys'."

Steven Callahan, president of Dundee Citrus Growers Association, Dundee, Fla., said he started with Finch at the Dundee Citrus Growers Association in 1999 and has worked with him since then.

"Al was a fantastic relationship-builder," Callahan said. "He built true relationships with everybody he came into contact with; he had a gift when it came to that."

Callahan said Finch never let his struggle with cancer define him.

"He was the most positive person you'll ever meet," he said. "No matter what he went through, he looked at it from the brightest angle that he could."

Callahan said Finch's attitude inspired everybody around him.

Finch is survived by his wife, Melissa, and sons, Gavin and Alex.

A funeral and celebration of life are planned for July 9, with more details pending.