Ferdinand Stephen Duda, former CEO of DUDA, passed away on July 12, 2024, at the age of 84. Known affectionately as F.S., Duda was a pivotal figure in Florida’s agricultural landscape and a significant contributor to his family’s business, DUDA, a 98-year-old diversified company based in Oviedo, Florida. His career with DUDA began in 1961, and he held various influential roles before becoming the CEO in 1998, a position he held until his retirement in 2004. He continued to impact the company as chairman of the board from 2005 to 2013.
Throughout his career, F.S. was recognized for his contributions to agriculture by numerous industry organizations. In 1993, he served as president and chairman of the board of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA), and in 1997, he received the FFVA Distinguished Service Award. His influence extended to the Florida Council of 100 and the Florida Land Council, and in 2015, he was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame, alongside his cousin Edward Duda and brother Joseph Duda.
Apart from his professional achievements, F.S. was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Oviedo, Florida, and served on the board of trustees for the Lutheran Haven Retirement Center. His dedication to service extended to the school board of St. Luke’s Lutheran School, reflecting his commitment to both his faith and his community.
DUDA CEO Sammy Duda remarked, “F.S.’s conviction and impact on both DUDA and Florida agriculture as a whole cannot be overstated. His commitment to both has helped us grow into the thriving business we are today. I will remember F.S.’s legacy with gratitude and humility, knowing the groundwork he laid is a significant reason for our continued prosperity and strength. His memory will continue to inspire and guide future generations.”
F.S. is survived by his wife of 63 years, June, their four daughters and their spouses, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Joseph Duda, Eleanor Hrncir, and Susan Hanas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ferdinand and Anna Duda, and his sister Elaine Duda Lavender.
A private family burial will precede a memorial service, which will be held on Thursday, July 18, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Oviedo, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. Luke’s Lutheran Church and School or the Lutheran Haven Retirement Center.
DUDA is a family-owned and operated company that traces its roots back to 1909 when Andrew Duda immigrated to America from the Slovak region of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The company, initially known for its celery crops, was formally incorporated as A. Duda & Sons, Inc. in 1953 and has since grown into a diversified business under the stewardship of multiple generations of the Duda family.
