OVIEDO, FL - We regret to report the passing of another industry great last week. DUDA, the parent company of Duda Farm Fresh Foods, announced the passing of its former Chief Executive Officer, Ferdinand Stephen Duda, on Friday, July 12, 2024.

Duda, known as F.S. to family and friends, was a third-generation descendent of company founder Andrew Duda. He officially began his career with DUDA in 1961 as the Assistant Unit Manager at the company’s Belle Glade farm. He held various influential positions within the company before being appointed CEO in 1998, a role he held until his retirement in 2004. His tenure as the Chairman of DUDA’s Board of Directors then began in 2005 and lasted until 2013.

His significant contributions to Florida agriculture were acknowledged by various industry organizations over the years, including the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA), where in 1993 he served as President and Chairman of the Board and, in 1997, received the FFVA Distinguished Service Award. Duda served on the Florida Council of 100 until 2011 and was a longstanding member of the Florida Land Council. In 2015, he was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame alongside his cousin Edward Duda and brother Joseph Duda.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Duda actively contributed to and volunteered at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Oviedo, Florida, and served on the board of trustees for the Lutheran Haven Retirement Center in Slavia, Florida. He also dedicated numerous years to the school board of St. Luke’s Lutheran School.

“F.S.’s conviction and impact on both DUDA and Florida agriculture as a whole cannot be overstated,” says current DUDA CEO Sammy Duda. “His commitment to both has helped us grow into the thriving business we are today. I will remember F.S.’s legacy with gratitude and humility, knowing the groundwork he laid is a significant reason for our continued prosperity and strength. His memory will continue to inspire and guide future generations.”

Following a private family burial, a memorial service will be held this Thursday, July 18, at 11:00 a.m. EST at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Oviedo, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to St Luke’s Lutheran Church and School or the Lutheran Haven Retirement Center.

Our hearts go out to all those who have experienced this great loss.