In Memoriam: Dole’s David H. Murdock, A Visionary Leader in Produce and Nutrition

DUBLIN, IRELAND - Dole Food Company released the following statement in remembrance of its former Chairman and CEO, David H. Murdock.

With heavy hearts we share the news today of the June 9 passing of David H. Murdock, former owner, Chairman, and CEO of Dole Food Company at age 102.

David H. Murdock stood apart— a singular force in American business—a self-made billionaire, visionary entrepreneur, and enduring advocate for health, longevity, and innovation.

As our guiding star from 1985 to 2020, Mr. Murdock transformed the global produce landscape through bold investments, science-driven leadership, and an unwavering belief in the power of nutrition.

He took over the Hawaii-based company Castle & Cooke in 1985, which owned Dole Food Company. Driven by the devastating loss of his wife Gabriele that same year he devoted his life to nutrition and healthy eating as the cure for cancer and life extension.

His vision and commitment to scientific discovery and product development as it relates to human health, nutrition, longevity and agriculture was unprecedented, building and funding collaborations with universities, corporations and healthcare organizations to better understand disease prevention through lifestyle, diet and exercise regimens. He established the Dole Nutrition Institute to “Feed the World with Knowledge” and advocate the benefits of a plant-based diet in promoting health and wellness.

Under Mr. Murdock’s leadership, Dole became an iconic brand and one of the world’s largest producers and marketers of high-quality fresh fruit and vegetables, with a singular mission to improve people’s eating habits. Often illustrating the point by saying, “We take better care of the maintenance of our cars than we take care of the maintenance of our bodies.”

Today, Dole continues his legacy with our mission to Make the World a Healthier Place.

“Mr. Murdock’s influence extended far beyond agriculture; his philanthropic efforts in science research, sustainable development, and education have left a lasting imprint on our business and the food industry,” states Johan Linden of Dole Food Company. “Driven by passion, curiosity, and an uncompromising standard and work ethic, he truly exemplified what it means to be a titan of industry with a legacy rooted in both business and purpose. It had been my privilege to work closely with him during my career with Dole.”

“It is never too late to change the way you eat - once you do, your body will thank you with a longer and healthier life.”
~ David H. Murdock