In memory of Peter Gutterman.

In late May last year my partner and friend Peter Gutterman learned he had pancreatic cancer. The news was devastating, to Peter and to everyone who knew Peter. Unfortunately many of us learned this morning that Peter passed away after his seven month battle with the horrible disease. Peter leaves behind his wife Roz, daughter Nancy, son Andrew, his daughter in-law and his grandchildren. Peter also leaves behind a ton of people who loved him.

I find it very easy to write (and comment) on just about any news and subject. But, not surprisingly, it is very difficult to come up with the right words for Pete and the effect that he has had on all of us.

Selling mortgages straight out of college in 1983 one of the first sales calls I ever made was at Sentry Real Estate in East Hartford CT. It was a bustling, successful office. But beyond the obvious success, what I was most impressed with was just how nice all of the people were in the office. I quickly learned why. At the top of the stairs was the leader of the company, Peter Gutterman. A man with a smile and a warmth that made me immediately feel comfortable. Peter was already a legend by then but he had time and interest to talk and lend a helping hand to anyone…even me. The people in his company (all six of his offices) were simply a reflection of Peter’s values.

8 years later Peter and I became partners in Sentry Commercial. And while I learned a ton more about Peter and the secret of Peter’s success, the one thing I learned most was that Peter’s success wasn’t as much as what Peter did but more so in who Peter was. What was Peter’s secret? Peter was loved by everyone…because Peter loved everyone. Peter had time for everyone. Peter was interested in everyone. Peter was interested in you.

What is Peter’s legacy? His real estate companies? His real estate school? No, Peter’s legacy, beyond his family and friends, to me, is this. In a world that values efficiencies, productivity and technology, Peter never changed what he valued most…people and his relationships with people. Whether you were a conservative or liberal…a competitor or an employee…Peter had a kind word for you and Peter had time for you. He had time to lend you a helping hand. Time to give you advice. He had a smile, a handshake and a hug. Peter had time. No, Peter took the time.

I will miss you Pete. We will all miss you Pete. It was a great run. Nonetheless, a run that ended far too soon.

Mark