Bob Barouti, the founder of California’s Giant RV that has grown over the years into four stores, died recently. The following was posted on the Giant RV Facebook page:
A self-made man, an immigrant who started with nothing, he proved the American dream is true by becoming the epitome of success through genuine hard work, discipline and a sincere support for his employees who he considered family, too.
He loved his business and even after more than 50 years of effort, he was still clearly the leader and intimately involved day to day. He was outspoken of his desire for it to pass down through his family and onto his grandchildren and wanted the strongest foundation possible.
Early on, he saw the unlimited opportunity in sales. He spent more than a decade with a mentor in a Cadillac dealership while he saved and prepared for his own chance. Starting with a small used car operation all his own, it grew rapidly under his care, and it didn’t take long for the genesis of Giant RV to begin some 37 years ago. Generous, but firm, he found great satisfaction in helping others grow. A day didn’t pass without his warm comment on a check, a smile to light up your day or a good word in passing.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Angela, his son Frankie Barouti and daughter-in-law Jennifer Barouti, his daughter Natalie Beral and son-in-law Joseph Beral, four grandchildren; Paris, Joshua, Kingsley, Cameron, and a large extended family.”