Larry Rotondi

Family man … Devoted husband … Loving father. Co-worker … Confidant … Friend … Mentor. Fair-minded boss … Industry advocate … Legend … A giant among men.

These are all phrases and adjectives used by friends and colleagues to describe Larry Rotondi, former publisher of Gifts & Decorative Accessories. During his nearly 30 years of service to the magazine and the gift industry, Larry touched many people's lives in significant ways that left an imprint. And with his passing late last year, we not only lost a kind and generous, champion of all people and things “gift,” we lost a friend and family member.

Whether dealing with people — family or friend, retailer or vendor, rep or show manager, staff or management — or championing the causes, such as Gift for Life, that were near and dear to him, “His way was a quiet way, preferring to let the results of his efforts and counsel speak for themselves rather than calling the spotlight to himself,” the December issue of Gifts & Decorative Accessories reported.

But that did not mean that his presence and influence went un-noted or un-noticed. “Larry embodied what was (and is) best about this industry — integrity, passion, work ethic, genuine friendship and respect for others,” wrote Debra Gold, Gold & Company. And Bill Winsor, CEO of the Dallas Market Center, observed, “Larry Rotondi was a vigorous supporter of the gift industry, a tireless advocate for fresh ideas, and a generous champion of worthy causes.”

Without those fresh ideas and the changes that come with them, Larry knew that an industry, a magazine and even an awards program cannot grow and prosper. It was during his tenure as publisher that both Gifts & Decorative Accessories and its Retailer Excellence Awards program underwent significant changes. His steadying influence helped the staff weather the magazine's transfer in ownership from a small family firm to a large corporate structure. And it was, in part, his strong motivation to update and add dimension to the awards program by recognizing the contributions of manufacturers and reps that resulted in the establishment of the Industry Achievement Award in 2000 and carries forward with this year's Outstanding Manufacturers' Rep and Rising Stars Awards.

But perhaps long-time friend and industry veteran, Sid Aronson, sums things up best, “The legacy Larry left behind can truly be attributed to his love for the gift industry. Through his enormous popularity, his knowledge, his understanding and his tireless, if quiet efforts, he made a huge contribution. He's a man who left a mark … and made a difference.”

In recognition of Larry Rotondi's significant contributions to this magazine and to the gift industry, Gifts & Decorative Accessories is honored to present a Memorial Tribute Award to the Rotondi family.