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 Long-time
Fresno State friend and benefactor Larry A. Shehadey who built Producers
Dairy into one of Fresno's most successful businesses and made a
philanthropic mark on the community through decades of support, died
Saturday, Oct. 10. He was 102.
Mr. Shehadey moved his family to Fresno in 1951 after he bought an
interest in the small dairy and by 1954, Producers was the top dairy in
Fresno and one of the nation’s biggest independent dairy operations.
Mr. Shehadey was a generous financial supporter of Fresno hospitals,
Fresno City College and California State University, Fresno, where the
tower at the Save Mart Center is named for him.
In addition, Mr. Shehadey supported Bulldog athletics, the Craig School
of Business, the Institute for Family Business and the Jordan College of
Agricultural Sciences and Technology. He was a member of the President's
Circle.
Producer's Dairy often donated food products for students and events,
most recently providing chocolate milk for student athletes to drink
after working out.
In 2002, Mr. Shehadey was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters
by the California State University in recognition of his support for
Fresno State and numerous community organizations. He was a regular
participant in campus events and activities through 2008.
At the time of making his gift for the tower, Shehadey said, “I hope my
gift will encourage others to come forward and support Fresno State in
both its athletic needs and its academic needs. I have always believed
that athletic success leads to recognition of the university not only by
the public, but also by its alumni and friends, and results in their
financial support.”
Fresno State President John D. Welty said, "Larry Shehadey was truly a
pillar of the community. He was a dedicated business leader who knew the
importance of giving back to his community. His influence often prompted
others to give, following his example.
“Larry believed strongly in academics, loved athletics and was a regular
participant in Fresno State activities,” said Welty. “His life was one
of hard work and accomplishment, and he leaves a legacy for us to
emulate."
The eight-story Larry A. Shehadey Tower is at the southeast corner of
the Save Mart Center. The tile-roofed tower includes a clock and stands
on four large supports so pedestrians can pass under the structure, one
of the tallest on a California State University campus.
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