During this year’s Viva Fresh Expo, the Texas International Produce Association paid tribute in memoriam to Craig Fox of Fox Packaging.
The Viva Fresh Open golf tournament posthumously honored Fox with a $25,000 scholarship in his name. Funds were raised through registrations from the annual golf tournament, which was held this year at the Golf Club of Houston in Humble, Texas. The scholarship is open to employees of TIPA member companies and their immediate family members.
Craig Fox died Feb. 1, 2023, after dedicating over four decades in the produce industry. After graduating from Texas Christian University in 1982, Fox started his career at his family’s business, Kenneth Fox Supply Co. (now Fox Packaging). As vice president of sales at Fox Packaging, his approach and dedication to building relationships propelled the company.
Described as a visionary and a friend to many, his impact extended far beyond the industry. He was known for his deep understanding of the market challenges and his unwavering commitment to his customers. His legacy lives on through his sons, Jacob, and Dylan Fox, who continue in his footsteps at Fox Packaging.
During the Viva Fresh Open, Ed Bertaud, IFCO Systems’ director of retail sales, co-chair of the tournament and member of the Viva Fresh Steering Committee, announced the posthumous scholarship in Fox’s honor.
“Once a year we have the opportunity to recognize and honor a member of the Texas produce industry who is no longer with us but made numerous contributions to our industry,” Bertaud said at the event. “Craig is not only a member of a family, but also a member of a family business that we all would struggle to find a better example of, in terms of legacy, excellence, education and promotion of our industry and I’m so proud to have him as this year’s recipient.”
Aaron Fox, Craig’s brother, accepted the scholarship check on behalf of the Fox family, expressing gratitude to TIPA and the Viva Fresh committee for honoring Craig.
“From everyone in the Fox family, I want to express a heartfelt gratitude to TIPA and the Viva Fresh steering committee for bestowing this honor to my brother,” Aaron Fox said at TIPA. “Craig had an unbelievable gift for understanding the intricate balance between tradition and innovation. While he had a tremendous respect for the roots of this industry, he constantly pushed the boundaries of what could be possible.
“As we honor his life and legacy, let us pledge to uphold his greatest principle: remaining fully present in our interactions with the industry and listening attentively to our customers,” he continued. “This level of attentiveness allows us to uncover the path forward while determining necessary paths and actions to maintain the loyalty of the industry.”
