<p>California Grape & Tree Fruit League are sadden to share former League Chairman and tree fruit and table grape grower/shipper, Virgil Rasmussen, has passed away on Sunday, November 18, 2012. </p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Rasmussen, the former head of Ballantine Produce Co., served as the League's Chairman of the Board of Directors from 1953-1954. Ballantine Produce Co., founded in 1943, was one of California's largest and most respected packers of California tree fruit and grapes. In addition to farming substantial acreage, the company also ran packing houses and cold storage plants, and marketed fruit worldwide. Over the years, Rasmussen had served on numerous industry boards, including the League and California Table Grape Commission. </p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>In 1992, Rasmussen was awarded the League's Mentors Award, which is the highest award the League bestows. The Mentors Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the fresh grape, berry and tree fruit communities through their leadership in the industry. An awardee is selected by the League's Mentors' Committee and a recipient is selected based on the following criteria: a trusted counselor or guide; a wise, loyal advisor; a tutor, coach, teacher; and a person who, through effort, discovery, innovation, dedication, and/or perseverance, has influenced the industry in a positive way. While accepting the award in 1992, Rasmussen recalled his love for the industry and his efforts throughout his career to work for its best interests. </p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Information about funeral details is pending. AndNowUKnow and CGTFL wish to extend sincere condolences to the Rasmussen family. </p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p><a class="btn btn-sm btn-primary col-lg-12" style="white-space: normal;" href="http://www.cgtfl.com/">CGTFL</a></p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">
