Apple Citizen of the Year
The Apple Citizen of the Year Award began in 1981 and is presented each year during the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival. This award was established to honor the roots of the fruit industry and the leaders that make the Wenatchee Valley the Apple Capital of the World.
When this award was established, it was determined that it should be presented to an individual in North Central Washington who contributes to improving the Washington State tree fruit industry. A group of industry leaders developed the following criteria to be taken into consideration when determining the award recipient.
An individual who participates regularly in the industry’s organizations and serves on committees for the improvement and advancement of the industry.
An individual who shows leadership in the enhancement of business practices throughout the industry.
An individual who is recognized not only throughout the industry, but throughout the community for ongoing participation in activities important to the people of North Central Washington.
An individual whose personal example throughout the industry, is recognized and followed by others.
An individual whose inspiring leadership encourages others to learn and grow while supporting their volunteer participation throughout the industry and in the community.
2025 Recipient, Cass Gebbers
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival Names Cass Gebbers as 2025 Apple Citizen of the Year
As the fifth-generation leader of Gebbers Farms, Cass Gebbers continues a family legacy that has endured for over a century. Gebbers Farms, a 100% family-owned and operated company, has grown into one of the most trusted apple producers in the Northwestern U.S. and one of the largest cherry providers in the world. With 13,500 acres of orchards producing 10,000 acres of apples, 3,000 acres of cherries, and 500 acres of pears, Gebbers Farms is a leader in agricultural excellence. The company’s marketing arm, Chelan Fresh, represents an additional 22,000 acres from neighboring growers, exporting 30% of its fruit to over 40 countries worldwide.
Cass is passionate about promoting apple consumption and works with retailers, health organizations, and industry leaders to encourage healthier eating habits. Under the Joyfully Grown™ label, Gebbers Farms collaborates with multigenerational growers to boost per capita apple consumption. Cass has served as a Washington Apple Commission Chairman and continues to advocate for the entire industry, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.
Beyond fruit production, Gebbers Cattle, a fourth-generation ranch, operates with a focus on genetic advancements and high-quality beef production. Through strategic Artificial Insemination (A.I.) programs and carcass data analysis, the company produces beef with enhanced marbling, tenderness, and flavor.
Cass is also deeply committed to education and community investment. Gebbers Farms sponsors scholarships through the Washington Apple Education Foundation and the Colville Tribes Ceilia Someday Foundation, supporting students pursuing careers in conservation, orchard operations, nursing, and technical trades. These scholarships honor his family’s legacy, including his sister Danna Guzman-Gebbers, his father Danny Gebbers, and Scott Baker, a longtime friend and technical advisor to Gebbers Farms.
A dedicated family man, Cass is the youngest of five siblings. He and his wife, Alycia, have been married for 39 years and are proud parents of four children and 13 grandchildren. Many of their children, nieces, and nephews are actively involved in the family business, ensuring the Gebbers legacy continues for future generations.
