ANAHEIM, CA - Fred McConnell, longtime produce industry veteran and Co-Founder of 4Earth Farms, passed away on December 10 after battling an illness. He was 79.

Fred was an industry icon and pioneer, dedicating his entire career to the Southern California produce industry where he built strong and long-lasting friendships, including with his long-time mentor Norman “Buz” Bolstad. Fred also worked alongside industry veterans like Dick Spezzano, Roger Schroeder, Dale Liefer, Norm Park, and Gary Lee, to name a few, according to a press release.

“I have known Fred for over 40 years. We first met when he was a buyer for Vons, and I was a Produce Manager on assignment to the office for new stores and remodels,” Spezzano told ANUK. “We worked together many times, and he was not only the fastest but smartest at the store level. Latter, we reconnected when he was one of Vons' suppliers. He was always honest, had the highest integrity, and was a great friend. I will miss him very much.”

Fred spent the first half of his produce career in the retail sector, primarily with the Vons Company, before moving into the wholesale and growing side of the industry. He then went on to work for the Duda family. He also spent several years at Western Mixers before finally co-founding 4Earth Farms in 1993 with his business partner David Lake. He retired in 2001.

“Fred was passionate. He saw produce as an opportunity to be more than others thought he could be. Fred believed he could outwork anyone and proved it every day,” said Lake. “He believed in me when I was in my early 20’s and took a big risk at 51 years old to start 4Earth Farms—MCL Fresh at the time. He touched many lives in the Southern California produce industry especially in the retail.”

Fred will be missed for his tireless dedication to his family, to his wife Sandra, and to his friends and coworkers.

A celebration of Fred's life will be announced at a later time.

We at AndNowUKnow offer our condolences to those affected by Fred's passing.