FRESNO, CA - The industry bid farewell to one of its own this past week, with the passing of Atomic Torosian, Managing Partner of Crown Jewels. The industry member, pioneer, and friend left us on Friday, July 7th, 2017 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Recent services were held July 14th at People’s Church in Fresno, California.
“My Dad was truly passionate about what he did and the people he worked with,” Wyatt Torosian, Atomic’s son, shared with me, “I was proud that he gave me an opportunity to help out at every level with Crown Jewels. It has always been hard work, but good work, something my Dad taught me.”
Atomic grew up, one of six children, on a humble farm in the San Joaquin Valley and followed a path from a very young age into the produce industry...and an exciting one at that. From getting shot during the grape riots of 1968 to his first job as a buyer at A&P, then Tri Produce-his own partnership company with Sales King, and eventually helping to create Crown Jewels, Atomic has been a dynamic and passionate individual throughout his time in our industry.
“He knew, and worked with, nearly every category he could get his hands on, from stonefruit and melons, to grapes, pomegranates, and summer and winter vegetables. The list is endless,” Wyatt shared. “The produce industry also afforded him the opportunity to visit and send product to all 50 states, South America, and the Pacific Rim. He loved to travel the world.”
In 1970, Atomic married his sweetheart and lifelong love, Charlene Agajanian, in a traditional Armenian ceremony and they were married for 47 years. Atomic loved hunting, fishing, history, the finer things that life had to offer, and needless to say, adventure. Atomic is survived by his mother and his five siblings: Arlene, Max, Tara, Ted, and Christine, as well as his his wife, son, and extended family and friends.
More wonderful stories about Atomic’s life can be found on the memorial page created by his family.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Fresno State in support of student athlete scholarships: Fresno State Foundation, 5244 N Jackson KC45, Fresno, CA 93740.
Contact can also be made to the Bulldog Foundation directly at 559-278-7160. Please designate your gift in memory of Atomic Torosian. Donations may also be accepted online using this link. Select other: Student Scholarships and indicate it is a Tribute Gift.
Atomic’s time in the industry was a true gift. Our team at AndNowUKnow would like to extend our deepest condolences to Atomic’s family, friends, and co-workers during this time.
