Frank A. Logoluso (93) died peacefully at home on Sunday, February 4, 2018 in Fresno, California. He was the son of Pantaleo and Grazzia Logoluso, immigrants from Bari, Italy. He was the 9th of 12 children, and the youngest son. He farmed from an early age, and in 1946 began Logoluso Brothers with his four older brothers.

In the early 1970’s, he began Frank A. Logoluso Farms, which continues today, and includes the fourth generation of the Logoluso Family. He began with wine and raisin grapes, and diversified over the years to include table grapes, cherries, apricots, almonds, and pistachios. He was one of the first grape growers to obtain a cannery contract for Thompson seedless grapes in California. At his peak, he farmed over 10,000 acres in 4 counties in California.

He proudly served his country in World War II as a bazooka carrier under General Patton. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and learned to survive day-by-day. He believed that anything can be achieved by hard work and dedication. His children and employees learned to never say “It can’t be done.”

Frank was the youngest member of the Allied Grape Growers board, beginning in the early 1960’s, and served for well over 30 years. He was a champion of grower’s rights, leading, funding and prevailing in class actions to protect the grower in grape contract disputes. He served on the board of United Vintners. He tirelessly devoted his time to the grape industry, and was known for his quality fruit throughout the world.

Family was of utmost importance to Frank. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty, his sisters Carmella DeLuca and Nickie Pieper, his daughter Janie Logoluso, his daughter Carol Holmes and her husband David, and his son Steven Logoluso and his wife Lesa. He is also survived by his 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren: Justin Bedwell and his wife Christina and their children Ethan, Owen, and Benjamin; Matthew Bedwell and his wife Lindsay and their children Holland and Hudson; Jenna Logoluso; Ian Holmes; and, Evan Logoluso.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, February 10th at 11 am at St. Peters Cemetery, 264 N. Blythe Avenue, Fresno, California.

Donations in his memory may be made to Hinds Hospice, 2490 W. Shaw, Fresno, CA, 93711 or the donor’s favorite charity.