Jim Wade, former head of Columbia Fruit Packers and a partner in Columbia Marketing International in Wenatchee, Washington, died July 12.

Wade was the second-generation head of the company that would become Columbia Fruit Packers, following in the footsteps of his uncle and company founder, J.M. Wade. His father was Ike Wade, who also worked for the company.

The U.S. Air force veteran started work at the company as a sales manager before taking the helm in 1978, according to the company website. He and several partners formed Columbia Marketing International, or CMI, in 1981.

Wade served as a board member for numerous industry organizations, including the Washington State Fruit Commission, the International Apple Institute (now U.S. Apple Association), the Northwest Horticultural Council, the Washington Apple Commission and the Washington Apple Education Foundation, according to an obituary from the family. He attended Washington State College, the University of Washington and Wenatchee Valley College.

Survivors include sons Mark and Mike Wade, daughter Susan Heinicke, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Mike is now the general manager of Columbia Fruit Packers.

—by Ross Courtney