Alfred Lion, Jr. “Al”, a resident of Fresno, California, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the age of 94.

Al was born on May 12, 1932, in Fresno, California, to Alfred and Queenie Lion. He grew up alongside his brother, Herb, and attended Roosevelt High School before earning his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical and Industrial Science from Fresno State.

In June 1954, Al married the love of his life, Pearl Lion, at First Armenian Presbyterian Church in Fresno. Shortly after their wedding, he proudly served in the United States Army. During his military service, he was stationed in Tacoma, Washington, for two years, where he and Pearl welcomed their first son, Jeffrey.

After completing his military service, Al returned to Fresno to begin what would become a remarkable career in the California raisin industry. Over the next several years, he and Pearl welcomed two more sons, Danny and Bruce.

Al had a lifelong passion for aviation and enjoyed playing handball, and remaining physically fit by lifting weights, doing pushups and 400 sit ups a day. Above all else, he loved his family, his faith in Jesus Christ, his work, and, of course, the raisin business. He devoted more than 70 years to the family business and became a true pioneer in the raisin industry, serving as a patriarch of both the Lion family and Lion Raisins. Al was fortunate to have three sons who entered the family business. With the assistance of Al’s sons, Jeff, Danny, and Bruce, Lion Raisins grew into the largest independent raisin company worldwide and quickly became recognized as the largest raisin grower globally.

Al was known for his unwavering work ethic, determination, and strong personality. Tough as nails yet deeply loyal and humble. Whether in business, with family, or in his faith, he gave his all and never backed down from a challenge. He loved life and faced every obstacle with courage and resilience.

Al is survived by his eldest son Jeffrey's children Gabriella, her husband Chris Darakijan, Joshua, Demitria and their mother Ingrid; his son Danny and his wife Jacqueline, along with their children Danielle, her husband Vatche Ghanimian, Jack, and Paul Lion; his son Bruce and his wife Robin, along with their children Frank his wife Justine, Vinson and his wife Hailey, and Valen, and great-granddaughter Milani. Al was preceded in death by his wife Pearl, eldest son Jeffrey, and his brother Herb.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Armenian Presbyterian Church in Al’s memory