Paul DiMare, chief executive officer and president of DiMare Fresh, passed away on Friday, December 30, at age 81. His company was one of the largest fresh-market tomato growers in the US, resulting in DiMare receiving the nickname “Mr. Tomato.” In addition, he was also one of the University of Miami’s most ardent supporters.
“Paul lived a life worth emulating, marked by generosity, leadership, and a gregarious spirit that made him unforgettable,” said University of Miami President Julio Frenk. “He poured his heart into his family, his community, and his every endeavor. We have been fortunate to know him personally, and we mourn the loss of this great man.”
DiMare served on the University’s Board of Trustees since 2004, holding various leadership positions and dedicating himself to uplifting the institution.
In the 1960s, DiMare moved to Florida to oversee the tomato growing and packing operations started by his father and uncles. Today, DiMare Fresh is one of the nation’s largest providers of value-added distribution services in the form of repacking, ripening, storage, consolidation, and delivery of refrigerated foods specializing in fresh produce and floral, including plants. Originally built as a tomato repacker, the company ventured into tomato growing and has expanded its many services through an efficient distribution network.
An industry leader in the areas of trade, product enhancement, and public awareness, DiMare was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2005.
He is survived by his wife, Swanee; sons Anthony, Paul DiMare, Jr., Scott, and Gino, and stepson, Jim Husk.
A funeral mass for Paul will be held today, Friday, January 6, 2023, at noon at Epiphany Catholic Church, 8235 SW 57 Avenue, Miami, FL 33143. Following the funeral mass will be a committal service at 2:30 PM at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery, 11411 NW 25th St, Doral, Florida 33172.
Source: news.miami.edu