Big John Douglas
1939-2024
John William Douglas, known by many as “Big John,” was a long-time Washington tree fruit farmer whose love for farming was unparalleled. Born in Yakima and raised in Wapato, Big John graduated from Wapato High School before attending the University of Washington on an athletic scholarship, where he played basketball and threw the javelin.
After earning his degree in business, Big John returned to Wapato with his wife, Judy, to begin his farming career and raise their family. He continued the farming legacy established by his father, growing stone fruit, pears and apples. In 1980, John and his brother Bill purchased farm ground in the Columbia Basin and later founded Douglas Fruit Company in 1983.
Big John was active in the tree fruit industry for 60 years, including more than 30 years of service on the Soft Fruit Commission. He cared deeply about farming, growing trees and providing opportunities for employees. He was remembered as frugal and selfless, with a strong commitment to caring for his family and future generations.
Though he could make a gruff first impression, those who knew him knew a kind and gentle giant with a huge heart.
The Big John Douglas Memorial Scholarship honors his legacy of hard work, dedication, integrity and commitment to the tree fruit industry by supporting students raised in families with ties to Washington’s tree fruit industry as they pursue higher education.