In memoriam | Dave Bernstein, produce industry leader, dies at 85

The fresh produce industry mourns the sad passing of Dave Bernstein. Past chair of the board for the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association and an executive at Sunkist Growers in California, Bernstein dedicated his life to the sector, which he loved.

Dave passed on October 22 and is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lois, and their three children, Lara, Mathews, and Richard. He was 85. 

A huge sports fan with a contagious smile and generous demeanor, Bernstein was also the Executive Vice President of Pacific Fruit in New York, and the owner of an import/export consultancy in Alexandria, VA, which introduced Moroccan citrus to the US.

“Dave was a friend and mentor from my very first day at United Fresh in 1993,” said retired United Fresh CEO and former IFPA Co-CEO Tom Stenzel. “Through it all, he led with a steady hand, encouraging insightful dialogue from his fellow Board members as well as emphasizing the importance of advocacy on behalf of the industry."

Dave Bernstein's memorial details