Peter Serratore, who began in the industry in the late 1970s and was a top sales rep at Holiday Products for more than 20 years, passed away on Dec. 22.
Born in suburban Philadelphia, Pete moved to Los Angeles in the late 1970s and quickly found work in the warehouse of Marlan Distributing. He later moved to CPLC, where he met colleagues who would become lifelong friends. For more than 20 years, he was a top sales rep at Holiday Products, and though he left the company in March of 2016 remained proud of his contributions to their success.
Pete was also very creative. He was instrumental in coming up with titles, marketing tag lines and sales promotions. He was a true team member and contributed in every way possible. -Susan Colvin, CalExotics
In 2011, Pete lost his sight due to a rare genetic disease; what he did not lose were his keen instincts, warmth and generosity, and quick humor. He was preceded in death by two of his best friends from the industry, Cory Ipson and Christian Mann, with whom he loved attending hockey games and concerts. He leaves behind a daughter, Angela, who lives in New York City, and countless friends and relatives who will miss him dearly.
Susan Colvin, founder and CEO of CalExotics, offered the following words: “Pete Serratore, Cory Ibson, Helene Kusens and Al Ornstein made up the most amazing team of sales associates at CPLC and Video Team. All four were smart, ambitious and competitive. When you add in Chris Mann who managed Video Team, it was a group of incredible personalities and a lot of fun. It was an exciting team to work with and it’s so sad that the last of the team members, Pete, has passed away.
“Pete was an amazing father. He raised his daughter Angela on his own and he made it clear that Angela was his No. 1 priority. Many times Angela visited us when the babysitter didn’t show up or school was out. Pete managed to help his customers and still make Angela feel that she was No. 1.
“Pete’s customers loved him! They were loyal and trusted him. Pete recommended products, made sure his customers’ products were shipped first and considered his customers close friends. When CPLC ended, Pete went to work for Holiday Products and every customer followed him. They wouldn’t have it any other way. If Pete was out for a day to take care of Angela, customers told us they’d wait to order until Pete returned. He really built friendships that are so rare.
“Pete was also very creative. He was instrumental in coming up with titles, marketing tag lines and sales promotions. He was a true team member and contributed in every way possible.”
“Although it’s been 23 years since Pete and I worked together, we’ve always stayed in touch. I’m thankful for his friendship and his incredible support of CalExotics. Pete is tremendously missed. Thank you, Pete for all of the great years together.”
An email account has been set up in Serratore’s honor: serratorecondolences@gmail.com.
