Ignazio Vella facts for kids

Ignazio A. "Ig" Vella (born July 13, 1928 – died June 9, 2011) was an American businessman and a skilled cheese maker. He also served as an important leader on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. This board helps manage the county, like a local government council.

Early Life and Education

Ig Vella was born on July 13, 1928, in Sonoma, California. His parents were Gaetano "Tom" Vella and Zolita (Clerici) Vella.

He went to Sonoma Valley High School. He also attended the San Rafael Military Academy and later the Air Force Officer Candidate School. In 1950, he graduated from Santa Clara University. He earned a bachelor's degree in history magna cum laude, which means "with great honor."

A Career in Cheese

Ig Vella's family had a long history in the cheese business. His father owned the Vella Cheese Company, Inc. in California. He also owned the Rogue Creamery in Oregon.

Ig Vella took over both of these companies. He became their general manager and chief executive officer (CEO). A CEO is the top boss who makes big decisions for a company. In 2002, he sold the Rogue Creamery.

Public Service and Leadership

Ig Vella was a dedicated public servant. He served three terms, which was a total of twelve years. He was on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. This board makes decisions for the county, like how money is spent and what rules are made. He represented the First District of Sonoma County.

He also worked on the Sonoma City Planning Commission. This group helps plan how the city grows and develops. Vella was also the manager of the Sonoma County Fair. In the 1970s, he was the president of the Association of Bay Area Governments. This group helps cities and counties in the San Francisco Bay Area work together.

Awards and Recognition

In 2006, the City of Sonoma honored Ig Vella. They named the West Napa Street bridge over Sonoma Creek after him. This was a way to recognize his contributions to the community.

In the same year, the American Cheese Society gave him a special award. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognized his important work and contributions to artisan cheese. Artisan cheese is cheese made using traditional methods, often by hand.

Later Life

Ig Vella passed away on June 9, 2011. He was 83 years old. He died at his home in Sonoma after a long illness.