John T. Pagel was known for his innovative and entrepreneurial spirit. Under John’s leadership, the Ponderosa has implemented a nutrient recovery system, robotic technology and a flash cooling system.

As an entrepreneur, John dreamed of producing cheeses and meats on the farm to share with his family and consumers. In 2014, the Pagel family purchased Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese and launched their product line, Ponderosa Farmstead. The family’s passion for “farm fresh” food did not stop there.  In 2015, the family opened the Cannery Public Market, Green Bay’s original farm-to-fork dinning experience.