LYNNFIELD, MASS. -- John A. Kaneb, former chairman and chief executive officer of HP Hood LLC, died on Aug. 29, 2021, at the age of 86. The Kaneb family acquired HP Hood in 1995 and grew the New England dairy into America's largest privately-owned processor with 3,400 employees and 13 plants spread across the United States from Maine to California. HP Hood is celebrating 175 years since its founding this year. 

Kaneb and his wife, Ginny, were actively involved in the industry as members of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). Kaneb also served on the Milk Industry Foundation Board in the mid-1990s. 

In addition to his many contributions to the US dairy industry, Kaneb will be remembered for his generosity and philanthropy. Considered a leader in his community, he was a philanthropist who gave his time and resources to his church and local healthcare and prison systems.

A celebration of his life will be held on Oct. 9.