The following is the memorial from USA Rice and the CA Rice Commission posted
on February 27, 2023.
USA Rice extends condolences to the family and friends of Frank Rehermann, who passed away earlier this month.
Frank farmed rice in the Live Oak area of California since 1972, and his impact on the rice industry was significant and long-lasting. He served for more than 20 years on boards and committees of the California Rice Commission (CRC), including as CRC chair. He also was chair of the USA Rice Farmers, a former USA Rice Council board member, and past chair of the California Rice Industry Association.
“I was fortunate to work with Frank for 40-some years on industry issues ranging from crop protection issues to rice straw burning,” said fellow California rice producer Michael Rue. “He was a thoughtful, steady colleague. When Frank committed to a path for a solution, he stayed the course bringing others along. California’s rice industry enjoys the fruits of his many contributions.”
In 2019, Frank was awarded the California Rice Industry Award for his years of industry leadership. When presenting the award, CRC President & CEO Tim Johnson said, “Frank was someone who focused on leading by example, he had a straight-forward leadership style that allowed everyone to be heard and no one to be maligned.”
USA Rice President & CEO Betsy Ward remembers Frank as a mentor who gave great guidance: “I was so fortunate to have Frank at the helm of the USA Rice Farmers Board early in my career at USA Rice. He taught me a great deal about California rice issues but also about the challenges facing all rice farmers.”
Johnson reiterated Frank’s ardent commitment to the U.S. industry, saying, “Frank will be remembered for his leadership, his even-handed approach to solving difficult issues, and his love of rice.”
Frank and his extended Harrington family also played a major role in NCWA and encouraging creative water management in Northern California. Frank will be missed!
