FRESNO (KMJ) — A man described as a major presence on agricultural boards and committees throughout Fresno County and California has passed away.
According to the Fresno County Farm Bureau, Fernando “Fred” C. Machado died on Monday after a battle with cancer. He was born in 1932 and came to the United States at the age of 16. He joined the US Navy at the age of 19, serving in the Korean War, earning enough money to lease 25 acres and buy a used tractor. He was the president of Fresno County Farm Bureau from 1972 until 1974.
“Really no other way to say than a legend here in the local ag industry,” said current CEO Ryan Jacobsen.
“Fred was just everywhere and anywhere for 40 years when it came to Fresno County and California agriculture. The guy was involved in just about every board and committee you could imagine for the industry.
“His loss is going to be felt for a long time.”
Jacobsen adds that Fred Machado was always known as “The Dairyman,” and his legacy in that industry will live on.
In a statement released by Fresno County Farm Bureau, Machado’s time in office focused on recruiting new members and bringing mediation between factions in the fields.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
