WENATCHEE — Brewster orchardist Cass Gebbers has been named 2025 Apple Citizen of the Year, according to an announcement from the Wenatchee Apple Blossom Festival. 

Gebbers, a fifth-generation grower, will be honored at the festival, according to the announcement, first at the All-Service Club and Community Luncheon on May 1 and then in the Stemilt Grand Parade May 3. 

“Cass Gebbers has dedicated his career to advancing the fruit industry,” festival staff wrote in the announcement. “Under his leadership, Gebbers Farms has grown into a 13,500-acre operation, producing apples, cherries, and pears, with 30% of its fruit exported to over 40 countries. Cass is also a passionate advocate for increasing apple consumption nationwide, collaborating with retailers and health organizations to promote healthier eating under the Joyfully Grown™ label.” 

The Wenatchee Apple Blossom Festival has named a Citizen of the Year since 1981, according to the association’s website. The purpose is to honor:  

• 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. 

Gebbers Farms grows a number of apple varieties and is the largest provider of cherries in the world, according to its website. It employs 1,000-1,200 employees during the off-season and 4,500 during the harvest. 

Besides growing apples, Gebbers also operates Gebbers Cattle, a fourth-generation beef ranch raising Angus beef, according to the announcement. 

“His dedication to education and community investment is evident through scholarships offered in partnership with the Washington Apple Education Foundation and the Colville Tribes Ceilia Someday Foundation, supporting students pursuing careers in conservation, orchard operations, nursing, and technical trades,” the Apple Blossom Festival wrote in the announcement. 

Gebbers and his wife Alycia have been married for 39 years and are the parents of four children and 13 grandchildren, according to the announcement. Many of their children, nieces, and nephews actively contribute to the success of Gebbers Farms, continuing the family legacy, the announcement said.