The Western Growers Family of Companies mourns the passing of former WG board member Donald “Don” Valpredo, a horse racing legend and beloved agricultural industry veteran.

Known affectionately as “El Don,” “The Chairman” and “The Boss,” Valpredo’s entrepreneurial spirit followed in the footsteps of his father, John Valpredo, who also was known for his innovative farming. John Valpredo was one of the original farmers in the southernmost region of Kern County after his family relocated to the Mettler area from Saugus, Calif, according to a company release.

Building on his father’s legacy, Valpredo went on to be President of Ridge Ginning Co. and founding Partner of Kern Ridge Growers, Val-Mar Farms and related entities. In 2008, along with his son, Michael Valpredo, Don Valpredo co-founded Country Sweet Produce. The company’s Bako Sweet brand owes its origin to Don’s affinity for sweet potatoes, which stemmed from his Italian heritage and his love for Bakersfield, Calif.

Additionally, Valpredo was deeply involved in thoroughbred horse breeding and racing for many years. He served on the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA) Board from 1972-1990, including as President from 1986-1990. He was inducted into the CTBA Hall of Fame in 2017. He served as a Commissioner of the California Horse Racing Board; President of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association; Director of the Thoroughbred Owners of California and as a member of The Jockey Club in New York.

He also served on the Western Growers Board of Directors from 2003-2014 and was a WG member since 1989.

Valpredo is survived by his wife Sally; three children: Michael Valpredo, Natalia Fritz and Alexis Mosely and their spouses; and seven grandchildren.

A private memorial is expected in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Valpredo’s legacy of leadership and service be honored with donations to the National Future Farmers of America Foundation’s Leadership Fund. Contributions can be sent by check to the National FFA Foundation at 6060 FFA Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278, or made online at ffa.org/donate.