SHALLOTTE, NC - A produce veteran and wholesale legend, Donald J. Sorani passed away recently at the age of 80.

After a brief battle with cancer, Mr. Sorani of Shallotte, NC, went peacefully on April 13, 2016.

Born and raised in Oakland, CA, Mr. Sorani owned and operated Richmond Produce Company in Richmond, CA. According to a statement, he developed his passion for produce by joining his father, Joseph, in the family business in 1968 before taking over ownership in the early 80s.  

Mr. Sorani was a major wholesaler in the San Francisco Bay Area, having been a supplier for the Fry’s Food Stores and several other small chains and independent grocers. In 1988, he sold Richmond Produce Company in 1988, but decided to stay connected to the industry by re-entering as Hilltop Produce from 1990 to 1994.

Mr. Sorani continued to contribute to the industry in his “semi-retirement,” having assisted the buying team at Andronico’s Community Markets in Berkeley, CA, as well as lending a hand selling at AMEX Distributing in Tubac, AZ.

Later, Mr. Sorani moved to Shallotte, NC, to be closer to his family, even offering his services to Lowe’s Market. He was an avid duck hunter and sports enthusiast.

He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia, and is survived by his children Mike Sorani, Maria Stello, Mark Sorani, and five grandchildren.