Allen (Al) James Vangelos passed away on September 5, just four weeks after his 92nd birthday. Vangelos spent more than 50 years in the produce industry.
He started his career in the produce industry with Birdseye in California, followed by a position at Dole Foods Corp where he ultimately became president. After more than 25 years with Dole, he spent 11 years with Calavo Growers as CEO and President. In 2000, after leaving Calavo, he and partners opened the Novelle Consulting LLC group, a leading management consulting group in the global produce industry.
In addition, Mr. Vangelos served on many private company boards, including BC Hothouse (as chairman), Sun World International, Key & Co., Naturipe Growers and the Russian Farm Project. He proudly served the produce industry when he was elected chairman of United Fresh Produce Association the mid-1990s.
IFPA comments
The International Fresh Produce Association issues the following statement as it joins the fresh produce community in mourning the passing of Al Vangelos, past Chair of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association (an IFPA legacy organization).
"Al was a consummate professional and volunteer leader who was widely respected among his peers for his insights and ability to identify opportunities and challenges before they were visible," said retired United Fresh CEO and retired IFPA co-CEO Tom Stenzel. "When I joined United right after he completed his chairmanship in 1992, Al reached out to bring me into his professional network and was a mentor to me and so many others throughout his long career."
Al Vangelos was a past Chair of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association (an IFPA legacy organization).
Al Vangelos is survived by Mary, his wife of 70 years, six children (Jim, Mary Kaye, Chris, Vasi, Dan and Steve), 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His sons Jim and Chris are active in the produce industry, and Mr. Vangelos was able to work alongside them on many projects during the past 30 years.
A memorial funeral and celebration will be held on Tuesday, September 17 at 11 a.m. at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church in Dana Point, California.