DES MOINES, IA - The industry is mourning the loss of a longtime produce leader and experienced retail expert following the recent passing of Tom Crall, Category Manager of Produce at Hy-Vee.
Tom was a valuable member of Hy-Vee’s produce purchasing team, the company said in a statement today. He began his career with Hy-Vee in 1991 at the Urbandale store. In 1996, he became a produce clerk for Hy-Vee. In 2000, Tom was named produce manager at Urbandale, where he served for nine years. He then moved to the West Des Moines office to work in produce procurement in the position of produce sales inventory manager. And in 2011, he was promoted to his most recent position. Tom helped keep our produce inventory current and fresh, and he developed a great rapport working with the stores to help them create their own programs.
Tom graduated from Dowling High School in Des Moines and earned his degree from Des Moines Area Community College.
"Tom was not only a respected professional in the produce industry, but also a devoted father and an incredible human being," said Joe Stoltz, Vice President of Produce at Hy-Vee, in a statement shared with ANUK. "Those who had the privilege of working with Tom will remember his integrity, warmth and genuine passion for people. He built lasting relationships across our industry and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, leadership and friendship that will not be forgotten. "As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the impact Tom had on all of us—as a colleague, a mentor, and most importantly, as a friend. He was truly a Produce Rock Star. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time."
We send our thoughts and prayers to Tom’s family – his wife Kristi and his three daughters Taylor, Kaylin and Chloe – as well as his sister-in-law Jenny Hill, who also works in Hy-Vee’s procurement department, the company's statement continued.
We at ANUK offer condolences to all who knew and loved this industry great.
