A Man For All Seasons

A retirement party is sweet and a little sad if you’re loosing a real good man.

We threw a big bash for one of our top people last month, and while it was a lot of fun, we were sad to see him go. Ray Patenaude, a vice president of sales and account manager for Shaw’s, with 29 years of Imperial service under his belt is “only” 62 and full of pep and vinegar. But he said he wanted to enjoy fishing and traveling while he was still in good shape, so that was that.

The event was held at the Cyprian Keyes Country Club in Boylston, Mass., close to our Auburn headquarters/distribution center. More than 100 people came. The turnout represented a widespread tribute to Ray for his skill, loyalty and dedication in his work and for his friendship and integrity in life. Besides Imperial people, attendance included family members, friends and representatives from a dozen chains and independents.

The celebration incorporated a reception, dinner buffet and a fun-filled and touching program which featured a Powerpoint presentation covering his life and times and starting with a baby photo provided by Ray’s wife, Dottie. Friends and associates stood up to make their comments in semi-roast fashion. The company’s going-away present consisted of a 10-day trip for two to Ireland and Scotland and a painting of a New England fishing village.

Ray started his career with Shop & Shop as a teenager and worked his way up to assistant store manager. His next job was in sales with H. P. Hood & Son. Then, in his early 30s, he joined Imperial. Back in 1972, we were looking for someone with leadership abilities who was strong at store-level, especially in merchandising. Ray quickly learned the non-food side of the grocery business. And he never looked back.

Since his home was in northern Massachusetts, we sent him out into our northern territories, which included Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. When we decided to divide sales responsibilities into chains and independents about 10 years ago, Ray was named vice president for independent food retailers.

He kept on growing. Last year when Imperial took over the GM business at Shaw’s, we put Ray in charge to lead the transition team and to provide ongoing headquarters management. Several Shaw’s people who attended the retirement party showed their enthusiasm with many complimentary remarks.

Ray Patenaude is a very special guy, the kind that would make any company proud to have. He’s wonderful with customers–they know he will leave no stone unturned to serve them the best way possible. He knows the non-food field upside down and backwards. He leads his staff members in a way they want to follow. A very direct but sympathetic person, he works well with his peers and top management. Oh, he can be gruff, but we know he just does that to get things going on the right track with a sense of urgency.

When Ray, said he wanted to retire early, I was surprised. “I want to travel and do things while I’m in good health,” he said. “And I’m looking forward to lots of fishing and more time with Dottie and the kids.”

So Ray, we’re going to miss you. You helped put more of the spring in our non-foods step. But just remember, if you get restless, give us a call. We have a project or two in mind for you!!!!

Click here for Pics of Ray’s Retirement Party
For comments or questions, E-mail: msleeper@imperialdistributors.com