Dole Food Company has announced the passing of its former owner, Chairman, and CEO, David H. Murdock, on June 9 at the age of 102. The company paid tribute to Murdock's transformative leadership and lifelong dedication to health, nutrition, and innovation on LinkedIn.
"With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of David H. Murdock, a singular force in American business—a self-made billionaire, visionary entrepreneur, and enduring advocate for health, longevity, and innovation."
"As our guiding star from 1985 to 2020, Mr. Murdock transformed the global produce landscape through bold investments, science-driven leadership, and an unwavering belief in the power of nutrition."
"He took over the Hawaii-based company Castle & Cooke in 1985, which owned Dole Food Company. Driven by the devastating loss of his wife Gabriele that same year, he devoted his life to nutrition and healthy eating as a means to prevent cancer and extend life."
"His vision and commitment to scientific discovery and product development related to human health, nutrition, longevity, and agriculture were unprecedented. He built and funded collaborations with universities, corporations, and healthcare organizations to better understand disease prevention through lifestyle, diet, and exercise. He also established the Dole Nutrition Institute to 'Feed the World with Knowledge' and promote the benefits of a plant-based diet in fostering health and wellness."
"Under Mr. Murdock's leadership, Dole became an iconic brand and one of the world's largest producers and marketers of high-quality fresh fruit and vegetables, with a singular mission to improve people's eating habits. He often illustrated this point by saying, 'We take better care of the maintenance of our cars than we take care of the maintenance of our bodies'."
Today, Dole continues his legacy through its mission to Make the World a Healthier Place.
"Mr. Murdock's influence extended far beyond agriculture; his philanthropic efforts in science research, sustainable development, and education have left a lasting imprint on our business and the food industry," said Johan Linden of Dole Food Company. "Driven by passion, curiosity, and an uncompromising standard and work ethic, he truly exemplified what it means to be a titan of industry with a legacy rooted in both business and purpose. It had been my privilege to work closely with him during my career with Dole."
"It is never too late to change the way you eat—once you do, your body will thank you with a longer and healthier life."
For more information:
Dole
Tel: +1 800 356 3111
www.dole.com