Allen ‘Al’ James Vangelos

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Allen “Al” James Vangelos, a beloved husband, father, Papou, Great-Papou, uncle, great-uncle, and giant in the agriculture industry. Al passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of family, leadership, and a life well-lived.

Al was born to a Greek father, James Vangelos, and an Irish mother, Catherine Elizabeth Green, in St. Louis. His early years were shaped by his father’s influence, which ignited his love for Greek culture. After the loss of his father at the age of 14, Al sought to carry forward the values of hard work, perseverance, and pride in his roots.

Al served in the United States Marine Corps for three years, an experience that would cultivate his discipline and resilience. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Mary Panos. At first, Mary declined to meet Al, as she thought she already knew every nice Greek boy in St. Louis. It was only after Mary’s friend wrote a letter to Al, his reply confirming his existence, that she agreed to meet him. Their love quickly blossomed, and they spent every day of Al’s 30-day leave together. Once Al completed his service, they quickly married and began their 70 years of loving partnership.

Following their marriage, Al embarked on what would prove to be a remarkably successful career in agriculture. He began his career as a salesman for Birds Eye in St. Louis (with thanks to Mary for helping him secure the job). He would later recall that despite having no degree, no talent, and no background at all, the store manager hired him anyway. Al never forgot his first moment of professional fortune, and he would continue to pass on this grace to those he worked with for decades to come.

From there, Al’s career soared. He joined Dole Foods, where he spent over 25 years and eventually became vice president of consumer sales, managing the worldwide pineapple business. In 1987, Allen became president and CEO of Calavo Cooperative, where he transformed Calavo into the largest avocado supplier in California. His pioneering work in Mexico established new markets and opened doors for future generations of avocado farmers. Even in retirement, Allen’s passion for agriculture and helping others did not (and could not!) wane. He contributed his expertise to international efforts, including working with the Russian government to develop agricultural cooperatives that still exist today, as well as working extensively with the Dutch financial institution Rabobank as a consultant on retainer.

Throughout his career, Al’s leadership was defined by his ability to connect with others, listen to their needs, and foster a culture of trust and support. He believed deeply in building long-lasting, trusting relationships with his colleagues regardless of seniority. His impact on the ag industry is indelible.

Above all else, Al’s greatest achievement — and the thing he was most proud of — was his family. He was a devoted husband to Mary and a loving father to their six children — Jim (Ingrid), Mary Kaye (Larry), Chris (Lauren), Vasi (Deborah), Dan (Meg), and Steve Vangelos — whom he loved deeply. He adored his 14 grandchildren, great-grandchild (including one on the way!), and nieces and nephews, and cherished every moment spent with them. His memory will live on in each of their hearts, as they strive to live in a way that embodies his great spirit and love of life.

Al’s life was filled with incredible milestones and accomplishments, however, his real and lasting legacy will be his love for his family and his cherished friendships. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. With each passing day, it becomes clear that Al touched many lives throughout his long, extraordinary life … some of whom he never even met.

A service to celebrate Allen’s life was held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church in Dana Point. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the California 4-H Foundation; a nonprofit aimed at engaging youth to reach their fullest potential.