WATERLOO, WIS. – Fresh dairy maker Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese announced the couple who helped start the company, president George Crave and vice president Debbie Crave, are set to retire.

While the Craves are stepping away from their full-time leadership roles later in January, the company shared that they will “continue to serve as brand ambassadors” and “work on special projects.”

The company said managing partner Mark Crave will continue leading the company, general manager Adam Falbo will oversee cheese factory operations and Roseanne Crave is managing sales and marketing.

George and Debbie Crave teamed with George’s brothers, Charles, Mark and Tom, to establish the company in 2001. The business, comprised of 13 family members and 50 employees, now is a nationally recognized, award-winning cheese maker. Crave Brothers noted George and Debbie Crave have overseen production, brand development, customer relations and sales, while also helping the company’s farm and cheese factory adopt sustainable practices.

"George and Debbie have set a solid foundation for the next generation of leaders to continue growing the company," Mark Crave said. "We wish them the best as they continue their life adventures together."

The family operates 3,000 acres of farmland in south-central Wisconsin, with a herd of Holstein cattle. Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese makes fresh mozzarella, mascarpone, Oaxaca, string cheese and fresh cheddar cheese curds.