Ryan Klobas, Napa County Farm Bureau CEO, dies at 45
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — Ryan Klobas, CEO of the Napa County Farm Bureau and a respected figure in the Napa Valley agricultural community, has died at age 45. His death has left a significant void in the region's agricultural leadership, the Farm Bureau said.
“The Napa County Farm Bureau is shocked and saddened to learn the news of our friend and CEO, Ryan Klobas," the Bureau wrote in a statement on its website. "We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Ryan's family, friends and colleagues. His contributions as the Napa County Farm Bureau's CEO will clearly leave a lasting impact on the farming and agriculture community in Napa County."
Klobas was unmarried and without children, but he had family living in the East Bay. Information regarding his death, including the cause, was not immediately available.
A passionate advocate
Klobas began his tenure at the Farm Bureau as policy director in 2017 and quickly rose to CEO the following year. His leadership was marked by deep commitment to the agricultural community, a dedication stemming from his personal connection to farming. He was a descendant of Joseph Klobas, a Croatian immigrant who came to America in 1929 and worked in Napa County's vineyards. Prior to his role at the Farm Bureau, Klobas held several senior positions in government and politics.
In 2020, Klobas' contributions were recognized with the North Bay Business Journal Nonprofit Leadership Award. He also played a crucial role in local political affairs, notably in the debate over Measure C in 2018, which proposed restrictions on vineyard development. His strategic approach led to the measure's narrow defeat, reflecting his influence in local policy.
During his tenure, the Farm Bureau's membership doubled, signifying its growing impact in the region. Klobas was instrumental in transforming the bureau into a powerful advocate in public policy and political matters related to agriculture. He also played a key role in crafting Senate Bill 11 with the California Farm Bureau, expanding insurance coverage for agricultural buildings.
Klobas held a bachelor's degree in politics from Saint Mary's College of California and a law degree from the Golden Gate University School of Law. His legal background and strategic mindset made him a formidable advocate for Napa Valley's agricultural interests.
Community voices mourn the loss
"I lost a friend, but Ryan leaves a legacy," said Tom Gamble, a third-generation Napa Valley grape farmer and owner of Gamble Family Vineyards and Winery.
"When I retired from the board last fall, I did so knowing Ryan had built NCFB into a far stronger organization than what it was when he arrived,” he said. “Because he did so, it will weather this sad and unexpected transition and continue to prosper, in no small part due to his efforts."
Klobas summarized Napa's animated land use policy battles to Gamble this way: "The sides in the Napa land use debates are like parents who passionately love their children but have strongly differing ideas about how they should be raised."
He continued, “And that was Ryan to me — passionate about his job, always seeking to better understand the community at large and always finding the humor in the ironies of politics. He was comfortable in the nexus between blue and white collar that defines Napa's farming industry and could speak the language of both. He will be dearly missed.”
Stu Smith, a member of the Napa County Farm Bureau and co-owner of Smith & Madrone Vineyards in St. Helena, called Klobas a “nice guy” and expressed shock upon learning of his death. Smith, who had previously served on the bureau's board of directors in the 1990s, took a break due to disagreements with the organization's direction at the time.
"But then Ryan Klobas came on board and changed the direction," Smith said, noting that Klobas' leadership prompted him to rejoin, a decision that brought him great satisfaction.
Reflecting on Klobas’ influence, Smith said, “I think he put the priorities of those who farm, who actually farm in the Napa Valley, back in the forefront. It sounds simple, but there was a period when the Farm Bureau lost its way regarding the basic goals of agriculture in Napa Valley. Ryan corrected that misdirection and got it going in the right direction, and I thought he was doing a superb job. And because of that, it makes his loss that much more painful.”
Jeri Hansen, CEO and president of the Napa Chamber of Commerce, wrote in an email, "Ryan was a strategic, shrewd and effective leader. He always seemed to be three steps ahead in his thinking when solving problems or tackling issues. I learned so much from him. He was a strong advocate for the agriculture and wine industry in Napa Valley. As a friend and colleague, he was always one of the first to celebrate accomplishments, offer praise and show up before he was even asked to — literally and figuratively. He had a booming laugh and a big voice that was typically at 11 out of 10 on the volume scale. He was a presence. He was a fiercely loyal friend to those who were fortunate enough to be in his circle, and we will miss him deeply."
Garrett Buckland, a partner at Premiere Viticulture and longtime member of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers, said, “Ryan was a breath of fresh air for the Farm Bureau when he joined the organization in 2017. As colleagues, we worked together on many industry-focused projects over the years. He championed the mission of the Farm Bureau like no other and worked tirelessly to help protect agriculture forever here in Napa County. It was a pleasure to have worked together with him, and his passing leaves behind some very big shoes to fill. He, more than anyone, understood the importance of protecting agriculture and fought valiantly to make sure that our home can remain a viable agricultural community into perpetuity.”
Ryan Klobas' impact on Napa Valley's community was significant and multifaceted. As CEO of the Napa County Farm Bureau, he played a role in advancing local agriculture and fostering collaboration among farmers and vintners. His efforts in promoting sustainable farming practices and supporting the interests of local farmers have left an enduring mark on the region. Klobas is remembered for his professional dedication, friendliness and the role he played in shaping the future of farming in the area.