COWICHE, WA - After 68 years of producing year-round consistently flavorful fruit farmed on their own orchards, Evans Fruit Co. Founders Bill and Jeannette Evans are transitioning the next generation of their family into leadership roles in the company. In addition to grandchildren Joe and Kimberly Evans taking on expanded leadership roles, the company will also be welcoming veteran marketer Suzanne Wolter.

Suzanne has working in many different roles in the produce industry during her tenure. Most recently, she created her own consulting company, FreshFit Solutions, but also spent time with companies such as fellow apple provider Rainier Fruit, Dole, and Tom Lange. She will now be heading the company’s marketing, effective August 1.

“With a new generation of family members moving into leadership roles, we see the need to better promote our company and have recruited Suzanne Wolter to lead our marketing efforts,” said Jeannette. “We happily welcome her to our team and look forward to a fresh approach to promoting our family business and great tasting apples.”

As for the Evans grandchildren, both Joe and Kimberly Evans have produce in their blood. Joe Evans tackles the company’s sales responsibilities and serves multiple management roles throughout the family business. Kimberly manages the company’s Human Resource Department and numerous other administration responsibilities.

“Bill and I put our hearts and souls into quietly producing exceptional fruit,” explained Jeannette Evans. “I’m pleased to see my grandchildren adopt the same philosophies under my guidance.”

Joe Evans

After Joe realized his passion for the industry from both his grandfather and father, Tim, he chose to follow in both his parents and grandparents’ footsteps majoring in Agricultural Economics & Business Management. Upon graduating from Washington State University in 2008, Joe gathered experience at other organization before returning to his roots with the family business, according to a press release. Joe also acknowledged his gratitude for the tutelage of his father and grandfather, who passed away in 2010 and 2016, respectively.

Kimberly Evans

Kimberly (Evans) Hiebert began her tenure with the company full time in 2005, shortly after earning a degree in Psychology from Washington State University. From her educational background, Kimberly has been well-equipped to handle all her Human Resource duties and administration responsibilities. According to the company, it is her passion for people that drives her desire to create an employee-centric workplace.

Joe, Kimberly, and Suzanne join the rest of Evans Fruit’s experienced team of industry professionals. Wesley Akiyama and Kristina Conrad have been with the company over twenty years; and Molly Scott, Scott Hennessey, and Patti Gilroy joined within the last five. Family members serving various roles include Russel Loges, Julie Evans, Pat Martinson, Barb Evans, and Andy Hiebert—each of which share a positive outlook regarding the changes ahead and continued success with Evans Fruit.

Evans Fruit Co.