Joseph (Joe) Cerniglia Jr., a former United Fresh Chairman of the Board, has passed away.

Joe attended the Marist School and graduated in 1949. After graduation, he followed his father, Joseph A. Cerniglia Sr., into Cerniglia Produce Co., the family produce business. When his father passed away in 1964, he led Cerniglia Produce Co. to many years of success.

Throughout his career, Joe served the produce industry in several national leadership positions. He was named the Chairman of the Board of the United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association and was tapped several times as a contributor for USDA panels and studies.

Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz appointed Joe to serve on his advisory committee. According to the Atlanta-Journal Constitution, he was also chosen to lead a U.S. delegation of industry leaders to visit the USSR and advise growers, dealers and merchants of agriculture in the best processes for growing, packing and distribution of perishables.

Throughout the years, Joe was a member of the Board for organizations including The Boys Club of Atlanta, YMCA, Atlanta Jewish Community Center and many others. He also served several terms as President of the Atlanta Produce Dealers Association.

Joe is survived by his sister Barbara Flowers, his 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cancer Home of Atlanta.

AndNowUKnow would like to offer its deepest condolences to Joe’s family and friends.