YAKIMA, WA - It is never an easy task to announce the passing of one of our own industry members. So, it is with great sorrow that we say Tim Corkill, a bright star who spent his career beaming with enthusiasm for fresh produce, passed away on Saturday, January 9.

“Tim Corkill had such a killer work ethic and a mind for the details, and those qualities coupled with his enthusiasm for our business made him someone we could always trust,” said Chuck Zeutenhorst, FirstFruits President of Marketing.

Corkill will always be remembered by those who had the pleasure of working beside him as a tireless leader with a keen eye for the industry and its growth. As one of the driving forces behind FirstFruits Opal apple program, he played an integral part in the growth and success of the company.

Throughout his career, Corkill honed his skills and left his mark as Western Regional Marketing Manager at the Pear Bureau Northwest, as the Western Manager of the California Grape Commission, and as Director of Marketing Services with Fresh Western, River Ranch Inc before joining FirstFruits as its Western Regional Marketing Manager.

“I’ll always remember the high level of enthusiasm and preparation Tim put into all aspects of his life, whether it was a big meeting or a trip to his beloved family cabin. Tim had a zest for life and deep knowledge of the industry that he joyfully shared with all those who were lucky enough to know him. I knew Tim to be the best rental car racer in LA traffic, arriving early to all meetings with the belief that ‘if you’re not early, you’re late.’ I will miss Tim and the energy he brought to all aspects of his life,” said Joe Vargas, Director of Marketing.

We would like to offer our condolences to his dear family and those who are mourning the loss of such a beloved man.