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Orchardist, benefactor Santo Varapodio dies

By Geoff Adams

Jun 19, 2024

Prominent Ardmona orchardist and community benefactor, Santo Varapodio, has died at his home, aged 88.

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Mr Varapodio was known for the expansion of his successful fruit growing business and for his ability to marshal support for community charities, which raised millions of dollars in his lifetime.

An active Rotarian, who was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship, he spearheaded the popular fundraiser, Fruit Salad Day in Mooroopna, for 38 years, calling in favours from fellow growers to donate fruit for the charitable enterprise.

Mr Varapodio was also a key driver behind fundraising for the Westside Performing Arts Centre, the Rodney Park Retirement Village and the Shepparton Multicultural Hostel.

He was involved in the Tatura Racing Club and proud of the annual Italian Plate, reflecting his ethnic background, as well as serving on the Mooroopna Cemetery Trust.

He was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australian (OAM).

Mr Varapodio died on Sunday, June 16 at his home following an illness.

His funeral will be held at St Brendan’s Catholic Church, Shepparton, on Saturday, June 22 at 11am.