Vancouver-based group has announced the death of Canadian industry veteran Gerry Gaston, who died on 18 February at the age of 83
Oppy has announced the passing of Canadian fresh produce industry veteran Gerry Gaston, who died on 18 February at the age of 83.
Gaston devoted 28 years to the Vancouver-based fresh produce grower, marketer and distributor.
According to the company, he began his career behind the wheel as a delivery driver, bringing fresh produce to local customers.
Gaston moved into the warehouse before taking up a sales position, where he would spend most of his career before retiring in 2001.
Specialising in Washington potatoes and onions, along with citrus from Texas and Florida, Gerry developed ”deep expertise in the complexities of the produce business”, Oppy outlined.
”He understood markets, margins and relationships — and how each depended on the other,” the company said.
”His reputation for fairness strengthened not only his own standing, but also Oppy’s brand and bottom line.”
Gaston championed industry initiatives, working closely with the BC Produce Marketing Association to promote the ’5 to 10 a day’ programme and encourage greater fresh produce consumption across Canada.
“Gerry brought a positive attitude to every situation,” said John Anderson, Oppy’s chairman, CEO and managing partner, who worked alongside him for more than a quarter century. “He believed in showing up – and in standing by people when it mattered.”
When customers or friends were in the hospital, Gerry was there to visit. When a teammate needed advice, he offered it — sometimes wrapped in good-natured teasing, always grounded in experience and care.
He is survived by his wife, Brenda, his children Jeff, Sherri and Tammy (Todd), and his granddaughters, Makenna and Caitlin.
“Gerry Gaston leaves behind a legacy that transcends sales numbers and seasons,” Oppy added. “He leaves a standard of fairness, loyalty and humour that shaped a generation of produce professionals.”
