Bard Valley Date Growers announced that Steve Shadle, who was involved in the Medjool Date business and the development of the Bard Valley Date Growers Association along with a number of business and philanthropic efforts, died Aug. 11. He was 84.

“Steve was a valued member of our community who touched and improved so many lives in the work that he did. He will be sorely missed,” said Tim Rooney, CEO of Bard Valley Date Growers. “We have lost a true giant and a remarkable visionary in our industry.”

Mr. Shadle was also instrumental in the formation of DatePac LLC in 2002. This was the impetus for multiple growers joining together in the Yuma, AZ, area to grade, pack and ship Medjool Dates under one roof. He was also a valued member of the legal community where he practiced and represented the Arizona citrus growers for many years. Farming will continue to be a part of his legacy and his “100 year plan.”

While not busy with his other endeavors, Mr. Shadle was an active member in the community in several civic associations, including the Chamber of Commerce, the American Red Cross, and the Caballeros de Yuma. Additionally, Mr. Shadle and his wife were founders of The Shadle Family Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to Yuma-area students and nonprofits.

Mr. Shadle is survived by his wife, Bobbie, and their children, Scott, Wendy and twins Amy and Beth. Memorial donations may be made to the Shadle Family Foundation. Please send to Amy Gill at 1451 South Hettema Street, Yuma, AZ 85354.