Mr. Sands also served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company from 1945 until 1993. During his career he was president of the Finger Lakes Wine Growers Association and was a founder of the American Vintners Association, a national wine trade association. Mr. Sands was also a member of the Rochester Advisory Board of Directors of the Chase Manhattan Bank. In addition to his business activities, Mr. Sands was active in community affairs and philanthropic endeavors, performing a number of leadership roles including Chairman of F. F. Thompson Health Systems and affiliated organizations for more than twenty-five years. Mr. Sands was also instrumental in the establishment of the Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center, which was constructed as the summer home of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. He supported many other organizations, including the United Way, the Greater Canandaigua Family YMCA and Mercy Flight Central.
The Board of Directors of Canandaigua Brands issued the following statement: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Marvin Sands. Marvin was a visionary leader for more than fifty years, and was the consummate gentleman in everything he did. His dedication to our customers and employees and his devotion to the community set an extraordinary example for everyone who knew him."
Canandaigua Brands’ chairmanship responsibilities are being carried out by Richard Sands, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, who was named Vice Chairman of Canandaigua Brands in June 1999.
Canandaigua Brands, Inc., headquartered in Fairport, New York, is a leader in the production, marketing and distribution of beverage alcohol products in North America and the United Kingdom. The Company markets more than 180 premier brands, including imported beers, wines, spirits, cider and bottled water.