Home > News & Media > Citrus industry innovator Bert Roper dies

Citrus industry innovator Bert Roper dies

13 News – July 4, 2012

WINTER GARDEN — The Florida Citrus industry lost a prominent member with the death of Bert Roper.

Roper is responsible for developing a grove spraying system that helped growers stop wasteful spraying.

In 2001, he was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame.

He served in the Navy and later helped build a fresh fruit empire in Winter Garden.

Roper has made numerous contributions to the community there, including donations to the YMCA, which is named in his honor.

President and CEO of the YMCA of Central Florida Jim Ferber issued a statement Wednesday afternoon:

The Y of Central Florida and the entire Central Florida community lost a Champion, Philanthropist, Scientist, Mentor, Teacher, and a Wonderful Friend.
Bert’s Leadership has impacted the community now and for future generations.
Bert was a remarkable man with a zest for life. He will be dearly missed.
The entire Roper Family is in our Prayers.
God Bless – Barbara and the Roper Family.

He was 88 years old. He is survived by his wife and four children.

Click here to view this article online