Hello Friends,
It is my regret to inform you that Ignazio ‘Ig’ Vella, Master Cheesemaker for Rogue Creamery and owner of Vella Cheese Co., passed away last night. He was surrounded by family and died peacefully at his home in Sonoma, California. Our team would like to express our condolences to the Vella family & Vella Cheese.
His last few weeks were filled with thoughtful conversations, joy, and laughter with the many visitors who came to his home. Ig expressed hope for the economy and Rogue Creamery’s continued success.
Everyone within the cheese community and the Rogue Valley will be affected by this sad news, including the town of Central Point, the Rogue Creamery team, the international community of cheesemongers, cheese shops and cheese lovers everywhere. He was an inspiration to us all, and his spirited personality, knowledge, and guidance will impact generations to come.
Ig was affectionately known as “The Godfather of American Artisan Cheese” for his dedication to artisan cheese and for his efforts over the years on behalf of the industry. He left a lasting legacy of service to country and community, serving as an Air Force Intelligence Office during the Korean War and as Sonoma County Supervisor. To read more about Ig's awards and lifetime achievements please click on this Vella Cheese Company link: http://www.vellacheese.com/pages/awards.html
The knowledge he passed on from his father Tom Vella, founder of Rogue Creamery, and the leadership and camaraderie he had with co-owners David and Cary will forever be imprinted within the Creamery.
His funeral will take place in Sonoma, California. Rogue Creamery will dedicate today’s two cheese makes, Oregon Blue and Echo Mountain Blue to Mr. Vella.
Here’s to you Ig! You will be missed…
-Over and Out (Ig’s signature parting)
Ig Vella
1929 - 2011
1929 - 2011
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