Joel Nelsen, former President of California Citrus Mutual (CCM) from 1982-2019, passed away unexpectedly on July 1, 2025.
For nearly four decades, Joel was the face of California Citrus Mutual. Under his stewardship, CCM evolved from a young organization – founded just five years prior to Joel becoming President – into the respected voice for citrus growers that we know today. His leadership was characterized by a deep understanding of the challenges growers faced and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the future of citrus farming in California. He was never afraid to speak truth to power, whether at the Capitol in Sacramento or the halls of Congress in Washington, D.C.
Over the course of a remarkable career, his numerous accomplishments reflect a legacy of leadership, advocacy, and innovation on behalf of California’s citrus industry. From responding to the devastating 1990 freeze that solidified CCM as a critical voice for citrus growers in times of need, to hosting numerous Governors, Senators, and even Vice President Dan Quayle during a presidential campaign, the organization quickly became a respected presence in both state and national political spheres under Joel’s tenure.
Most of all, Joel left an indelible impact on people. Through his mentorship of growers, staff, government staffers, and industry professionals, his legacy will endure in their ongoing work.
Left to Right: CCM directors Curt Holmes, Matt Fisher, Al Bates and Brian Neufeld with former President Joel Nelsen.
Reflections from Past CCM Chairs
“Joel was so passionate about the citrus industry, and that passion was contagious,” said former CCM Chairman Curt Holmes. “We all learned how to be better advocates for the industry through Joel. He was not shy and unapologetic in his approach, and I think he made a lot of us in the industry better leaders.”
“He taught me a lot,” said former Chair Kevin Severns. “I was just a kid starting out in the industry, and I got to meet a lot of people thanks to him and CCM. Joel was able to make the California citrus industry known and appear larger than it actually was, despite our production being below that of other citrus-producing areas at the time. He was a warrior for the citrus industry.”
“Joel Nelsen was and is a legend in the citrus industry,” said former Chair Tommy Wollenman. “For well over 30 years, members of the citrus industry who had a problem could always check with California Citrus Mutual and Joel Nelsen to find answers to their problems or issues. With Joel as its leader, CCM became one of the highest-ranking agricultural trade organizations in the state. The list of CCM’s accomplishments under Joel’s leadership goes on and on. He will be greatly missed.”
“I had the pleasure of working closely with Joel in one capacity or another for 20 years,” Wollenman continued. “I took several trips with Joel to either Sacramento or Washington, D.C. Each trip was always an experience to remember, as Joel seemed always to know the right people in the right places to discuss issues that the citrus industry might be facing at that time. I will always value my relationship with Joel, as he was a truly great friend.”
We offer our deepest condolences to his wife, Suezette; daughters, Nicole (Robert) and Laura; grandson, Conner; and brother, Steven, as well as his extended family and close friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Visalia Country Club, 625 N. Ranch St., Visalia, CA 93291.
