Obituary
The longtime Oppy veteran and former shareholder, known for his “people-first” philosophy and sense of humor, spent nearly 30 years shaping the Canadian produce trade.
Following a distinguished career with the commission, BJ Thurlby is remembered for his passion for the industry and his family.
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.
Peter died on Sept. 25, 2025 after spending his life improving his family’s farm and working to better New York apple and wider agricultural industries.
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.
Sir David Nabarro, 2018 World Food Prize Laureate, is being recalled as a mentor and leader whose efforts helped many.
Barnes, a leader of the North Carolina sweetpotato industry, died July 12. A memorial service will be held July 20.
The lifelong athlete and Domex Logistics leader passed away July 3. A celebration of life will be held July 22.
The second-generation owner of Turlock Fruit Company died July 3 at 95 years; celebration of life held on Saturday, July 12.
The company he helped build mourns the loss of a director of business development, teammate and friend.
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.
Duane Eaton, a long-time senior staff executive who led the meetings and tradeshows team at legacy organization Produce Marketing Association, has died.
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.