Western Growers mourns the passing of Joel Nelsen, former CEO of California Citrus Mutual (CCM) and a lifelong champion of California agriculture. He was 78.

Nelsen’s father, a produce executive at Lucky Stores in Southern California, was the one who first introduced him to the industry. When he was 16, Nelsen started out as a produce clerk, eventually rising through the ranks to become a produce manager. From 1966 through 1970 Nelsen served four tours in Vietnam, all while continuing his produce manager job in between tours and attending college.

After returning from the war, Nelsen reentered the produce industry and became the first full-time executive of the Fresh Produce Council of Southern California.

It wasn’t until 1982 that Nelsen found his home as CEO at CCM. Over the next 37 years, Nelsen led the organization through a period of immense transformation and challenges. His fierce advocacy at both the state and federal level earned him a reputation as one of the most respected and relentless voices in the ag industry.

He served CCM until his retirement in 2019.

His decades of leadership leave a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations in agriculture.

Western Growers extends its heartfelt condolences to Nelsen’s family, friends and the entire citrus community. He will be deeply missed.

You can read more about Nelsen’s career and industry impact here.

Photo courtesy of The Produce News.