CORAL GABLES, FL - The industry recently lost a long-tenured leader who made a large impact in produce and floral. On April 18, former Director of Business Development at Chestnut Hill Farms John-Campbell Barmmer passed away.
Barmmer held his position at Chestnut Hill Farms for 21 years, using his superior ability assessing business landscapes to implement winning strategy and company culture centered around building long-term relationships. In 2011, he retired from the company and relocated to Glen Mills, Pennsylvania.
Earlier in his career, Barmmer worked as a senior-level executive for Chiquita Brands for over 20 years. In the mid-1980s, he was tapped to lead the newly organized Chiquita Tropical Products group in a demanding role as its inaugural President. He structured the acquisition of several business units; organized a diversified sales division for branded produce like melons, pineapples, grapefruit, mangos, and other tropical fruits; and secured marketing agreements with retailers across the globe.
In 1989, Barmmer relocated his family to South Florida and incorporated his own floral import and marketing company, FPMS. A press release noted that Barmmer is fondly remembered by all for his deep business acumen, razor-sharp wit, and honest, transparent approach to everyone he encountered. He was a mentor to many and a true friend.
Barmmer earned his undergraduate degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and his MBA from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California.
He and his wife of 52-plus years, Mary Friel Barmmer, resided in the Fox Hill Farm community in Glen Mills since 2014. He is survived by Mary; sons Dylan John Barmmer and Brendan (Olga) Barmmer; a brother, Russell G. (Karen) Barmmer II; two granddaughters, Isabel and Amelia Barmmer; and a large group of nieces and nephews.
We send our condolences to all who are mourning the loss of this great leader.
