During this year's Viva Fresh, the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) paid tribute in memoriam to Texas produce icon, Craig Fox of Fox Packaging. The Viva Fresh Open golf tournament, presented by BEBO Distributing and H-E-B, posthumously honored Fox with a $25,000 scholarship in his name. Funds were raised through registrations from the annual golf tournament, which was held this year at the Golf Club of Houston in Humble, Texas. The scholarship is open to employees of TIPA member companies and their immediate family members.
Fox passed away on February 1, 2023, after dedicating over four decades of service to the produce industry. After graduating from Texas Christian University in 1982, Fox started his career at his family's business, Kenneth Fox Supply Co. (now Fox Packaging). As vice president of sales at Fox Packaging, Fox's dedication to building relationships propelled the company to new heights.
Fox's impact extended far beyond the industry. He was known for his deep understanding of the market challenges and his commitment to his customers. Fox's legacy lives on through his sons, Jacob, and Dylan Fox, who continue in his footsteps at Fox Packaging.
Funds for the scholarship were raised through registrations from the annual golf tournament.
"Once a year we have the opportunity to honor a member of the Texas produce industry who is no longer with us but made numerous contributions to our industry," said Ed Bertaud, IFCO's director of retail sales, co-chair of the tournament and member of the Viva Fresh Steering Committee. "Craig is not only a member of a family, but also a member of a family business that we all would struggle to find a better example of, in terms of legacy, excellence, education, and promotion of our industry. I'm so proud to have him as this year's recipient."
Aaron Fox, Craig Fox's brother, accepted the scholarship check on behalf of the Fox family, expressing gratitude to TIPA and the Viva Fresh committee for honoring Fox.
"I want to express a heartfelt gratitude to TIPA and the Viva Fresh steering committee for bestowing this honor to my brother," said Aaron Fox. "As we honor his legacy, let us uphold his greatest principle: remaining fully present in our interactions with the industry and listening to our customers. This level of attentiveness allows us to uncover the path forward while determining necessary paths and actions to maintain the loyalty of the industry."
The scholarship provides funding for students pursuing educational opportunities related to any field of the fresh produce supply chain. This includes four-year college degree tracks and technical and certification-related tracks, such as electrical, HVAC, and heavy equipment operators. Thanks to funds raised from previous Viva Fresh Golf Opens, more than three dozen scholarships totaling more than $150,000 have already been awarded.
For more information:
Viva Fresh
Tel: +1 (956) 581-8632
[email protected]
www.vivafreshexpo.com