Honoring the Life and Legacy of Andy D’Arrigo, the Original “Andy Boy”

Andy D’Arrigo – 2 1/2 years old

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Andy D’Arrigo, the original “Andy Boy,” at the age of 102.

For nearly a century, Andy’s smiling face has been one of the most recognizable symbols in fresh produce. Since first appearing on the iconic Andy Boy label in 1927, his image has represented a brand that generations of families have come to know and trust. While millions recognized him as the face on the label, those who knew Andy knew him as a devoted family man whose name will forever be woven into the history of the Andy Boy brand.

In 1927, Andy’s father and uncle made the bold decision to feature Andy’s two-and-a-half-year-old face on a bright pink label to distinguish their produce in the marketplace. According to a Harvard Business School study, Andy Boy became the first branded fresh produce label, forever changing how fresh produce was marketed to consumers. What began as a simple way to identify the family’s premium produce soon became one of the most enduring and recognizable brands in the produce industry. Nearly 100 years later, Andy’s smiling face remains an enduring symbol of freshness, quality, and trust.

Following his service in the United States Navy during World War II, Andy graduated from the University of California, Davis and joined the family business in 1949. He served as President of D’Arrigo California from 1965 to 1992 before transitioning leadership to his son, John D’Arrigo. Andy continued to serve as the company’s Chairman of the Board until 2014, and officially retired in 2015 after working for the company for over six decades.

Beyond the produce industry, Andy was known for his love of flying, fishing, building historically accurate model ships, and, above all, spending time with his family. He was admired for his kindness, humility, and genuine appreciation of his employees and people around him.

Today, the Andy Boy label continues to stand for the same values that have defined it for generations: quality, freshness, and a commitment to providing exceptional produce to families across North America. As we remember Andy’s remarkable life, we also celebrate the enduring place he holds in the story of our brand.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire D’Arrigo family and to all who had the privilege of knowing Andy.

Thank you, Andy, for the smile that became an icon and for the legacy you leave behind. Your place in the history of Andy Boy and the produce industry will never be forgotten.

Andy D’Arrigo – 100 years old