Ed Stokes Nov. 20 1922- Nov. 28, 2018

Ed Stokes Nov. 20 1922- Nov. 28, 2018

Founding Father

Ed Stokes is the founder and patriarch of independent family owned Diablo Foods. Ed was named, “The 2010 Retailer of the Year” by the California Independent Grocer’s Association.

When he launched Diablo Foods, 50 years ago, Ed worked the check stand twelve hours a day for two straight years.  His wife, Betty, put in long hours behind the deli counter for years.  Both Ed and Betty continue their active presence at the store to catch up with customers and to make sure their governing philosophy endures.  “While some things change, the important things don’t – good service, fairness, quality and friendliness know no compromise – they matter in business and they matter in life.”