Cherry grower and winery owner Ronald Schmidt of Zillah, Washington, will be remembered as an upbeat and positive industry leader who had a passion for his work. He died in May in a one-vehicle accident, at the age of 51. Schmidt, a third-generation orchardist, joined his father as managing partner of Schmidt Orchards after graduating from college. He became sole owner of the business in 2004. He was president of Cherry Institute in 2001, and was involved in many other agricultural associations, including the Sweet Cherry Marketing Committee and the Rattlesnake Hills AVA (American Viticulture Area). He planted his […]