Remembering a farmers market pioneer and pet lover.

Farmers market co-founder and owner of Happy Dog Bakery Jerry Kugel died June 11. Known for his trademark handlebar mustache and friendly spirit, Kugel always had a warm greeting for dogs and their owners visiting his stand at farmers markets in Broward and Palm Beach County. Kugel, along with partners Gary Kareff and Jonathan Grotsky, pioneered Broward’s farmers market scene, launching successful neighborhood markets in Plantation, Tamarac, Lauderdale By-the-Sea and Imperial Point. 

Kugel grew up in White Plains, New York, where he had multiple careers – in management and recruiting, employment agencies, the automotive industry, even a flavored popcorn business. His entrepreneurial passion led him to experiment with making healthy pet treats, which he decided to sell at a farmers market. Happy Dog Bakery Healthy All-Natural Treats spawned another sideline – operating Community Farmers Markets of South Florida, joined by Kareff and Grotsky. Kugel is survived by two children and eight grandchildren. His children, Michael and Ninie, will continue the bakery and his legacy.