William “Bill” Ramsey, former partner of Mann Packing Co. Inc., died Oct. 8, 2024 at the age of 92. Bill was the Chair of the Western Growers Board of Directors in 1994 and received Western Growers’ most prestigious award, the Award of Honor, in 1999.

Bill grew up in Salinas, Calif., and briefly attended Hartnell College. Following four years of service in the U.S. Navy, Bill traded his uniform for farm boots and returned home to begin a new chapter in agriculture.

Bill’s commitment to his community took root early, beginning with service to the Salinas City School Board. He went on to serve on various boards, including the Hartnell College Board of Trustees and the Board of John Steinbeck National Center, where he helped raise funds for the Center building. Over the years, Bill continued to support fundraising efforts for many local causes, including the Salinas Rodeo and the Rabo Bank Stadium.

This same dedication to his community carried over into his professional life at Mann Packing Co. Inc., a subsidiary of Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc., and one of the largest suppliers of packaged vegetables in North America. A fierce advocate for agriculture, Bill testified before Congress on critical agricultural issues and trade agreements, including NAFTA.

Besides serving as Western Growers Chair, Bill served as Board Chairman and later President of the Grower-Shipper Association. He also served on the Western Growers Board of Directors from 1978 to 1998.

Western Growers extends our deepest condolences to Bill’s family, friends and colleagues.

Private services will be held at the Central Coast Veterans Cemetery in Monterey County. To honor Bill, floral arrangements can be coordinated through Daly-Leach Chapel here.