Fred Hempel

[KarenO]

It is with a heavy heart and the deepest respect for my dear friend the brilliant Fred Hempel that I share the news of his passing received from his family.
Fred was a legend in the world of tomatoes and his innovative work has and will continue to be a source of inspiration to so many.
His friendship was a treasure to me personally and he will be so missed.
I hope his friends in the community of tomato enthusiasts around the world may have thoughts to share so that his family can see the impact of his life and passion for tomato breeding
This is the tribute written by his brother Stephen Hempel

Frederick D. Hempel, 63, passed peacefully in the San Francisco Bay Area on Tuesday, October 31, 2023.

Fred was born May 11, 1960, in Flint, Michigan. He was raised in Farmington Hills, Michigan as the oldest of five siblings. His early love of nature led him to study Forestry and Ecology at Michigan State University and The University of California Santa Barbara. He went on to earn a Master’s in Range Management and a Ph.D. in Molecular Plant Biology from The University of California Berkeley.

Fred was a great father who loved his children and instilled in them a sense of curiosity, integrity and purpose. His life as a tomato breeder and farmer in Sunol provided a unique space of exploration as well as a living example of passion, drive and determination.

Fred was an educator at heart. He diligently and humbly sought to broaden his own understanding of life, society, and the world around him. He enjoyed the exchange of ideas in an effort to open minds and doors for others. He was an accomplished scientist, writer and teacher. His understanding of plants and genetics evolved into his passion, and professional legacy, as a tomato breeder. His work developing new tomato varieties through Baia Nicchia, Artisan Seeds, and Bene Seeds garnered appreciation and praise from chefs, restaurateurs, gardeners, and fellow breeders world-wide.

Those who know Fred also know of his love for his rescued Greyhounds and Galgos, SSC Napoli, the mountains, volleyball, and the music, artists, and authors that inspired him.

Fred’s enduring spirit lives on in his children, Alex Hempel and Nicole Hempel. He is also survived by his father, Conrad Hempel, and his siblings, Marcia Geurink (Scott), Carolyn Schellenberg (Matt), Julie Hempel, and Stephen Hempel (Monali).

The family will host a memorial celebration of Fred’s life in late December at a date and location to be announced in the coming days.

Fred’s family extends heartfelt appreciation for all of the support received in this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family suggests donations to Native Seeds Search and SAGE Save A Galgo Español (links in the comments below).