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Monday, Nov. 17, 2008

Ernie Gemperle, founder of Turlock-based egg company, dies at 79

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Ernie Gemperle of Turlock, a leader in the egg industry and in many community causes, died Saturday at 79.

Mr. Gemperle, a native of Switzerland, founded Gemperle Enterprises in 1953 and built it into one of the state's top egg producers.

He gave time and money to a host of causes — Boy Scouts, Emanuel Medical Center, the Roman Catholic Church and California State University, Stanislaus, among others.

"I really believe in giving back some things to the community for the good things that have come my way," Mr. Gemperle said upon receiving one of his many awards in 1993. "This country has been very good to me and I believe in being a good steward in return."

A funeral Mass is planned for Saturday.