Stemilt Founder Thomas Mathison Dead at 82

WENATCHEE, Wash. — Stemilt founder and tree fruit pioneer Thomas Kyle Mathison died last week at the age of 82, after battling cancer.

Mathison, a third-generation apple and cherry grower, implemented new methods and technologies as he grew his family business and was instrumental in taking Washington fruit to the global marketplace, his colleagues said. As the business prospered, Mathison began packing for other growers, and incorporated Stemilt Growers in 1964.

He is survived by his wife, Lorraine, two sons, a daughter, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A celebration of his life will be held March 18 at the Wenatchee Convention Center.

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