Donald (Don) John Valpredo, a lifelong champion of agriculture, businessman, founder, and impetus behind Bako Sweet's entry into the sweet potato business, died Oct. 31, while on vacation overseas. Valpredo was 85 years old.
Affectionately referred to as "El Don", "The Chairman", and/or "The Boss," Valpredo's entrepreneurial spirit broke the mold of his father, John Valpredo, who was an innovative farmer. John Valpredo was one of the original farmers in the southernmost region of Kern County after his family relocated to the Mettler area from Saugus, CA. He is remembered as a pioneer for being among the first, if not the first, to drill deep enough to find water in the area.
Don Valpredo went on to be president of Ridge Ginning Co., and founding partner of Kern Ridge Growers, Val-Mar Farms, and related entities. In 2008, along with his son, Michael Valpredo, he co-founded Country Sweet Produce, whose Bako Sweet brand owes its origin to Valpredo's affinity for sweet potatoes. Beyond his business interests, Valpredo demonstrated a commitment to serving the industry through various directorships including Arvin Edison Water Storage District, Rancho Visitadores, and Western Growers.
Left to right: Don Valpredo with his son Michael Valpredo.
Valpredo was also an avid horseman, breeding, and racing enthusiast. While he will forever be the patriarch of many ag enterprises, which along with his proud and steadfast service comprises much of his legacy, thoroughbred horses were Valpredo's true passion.
Valpredo was proud of his farming and equine ventures but was most proud of his family and Italian heritage. A loving grandfather, father, husband, uncle, friend, and fierce ally, he is survived by Sally, his loving wife, three children (Michael Valpredo, Natalia Fritz, and Alexis Mosely and their spouses), and seven grandchildren (Elle, Jadon, and Rome Valpredo, Buchannon, Bianca, and Leonardo Fritz, and George Moseley). His son Michael continues his legacy via his role as president of Country Sweet Produce.
A private memorial ceremony will be held in the coming weeks. Instead of flowers, the family invites you to honor Valpredo's legacy through a donation to the National Future Farmers of America Foundation's Leadership Fund. Donations can be made by check to: National FFA Foundation, 6060 FFA Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46278. Or online at www.ffa.org/donate. For assistance, contact Kimberly Coveney at 317-802-4344 or [email protected]
For more information:
Bako Sweet
Tel: (+1) 661-858-1075 x818
[email protected]
www.bakosweet.com