By SEMA Editors
 Ralph Panico | |
On Friday, May 5, Ralph Panico celebrated his 75th birthday with family and friends. Two days later at 6:30 a.m., while sleeping comfortably next to his wife Judy, he succumbed to complications resulting from his long battle with diabetes.
Panico served as Petersen Publishing Co.’s western sales manager until his retirement to live in Montana with his wife. His distinguished career included creating new job opportunities for many salesmen still in the industry today. This included giving applicants unschooled in the world of publishing a chance to make it big. Panico’s knack for people skills ultimately resulted in an all-time sales record of $200 million.
Panico positively impacted thousands of lives and was widely respected by his peers. He began is long sales career as a newspaper salesman and ultimately ended up in the specialty-equipment marketplace.
Panico is survived by his wife Judy, son Dan, daughter-in-law Glenda and grandson Troy.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Panico’s favorite charity—the American Diabetes Association.