Gene Okamoto

Gene Okamoto has left the building! Tomorrow will start his retirement from a monumental career as Product Specialist for Pearl Corporation. 

Starting in Sales at Drum World in CA, Gene would become a global figure in the drum industry. 

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His reputation is revered by all (and probably feared by a few who don't pay attention to patents!) and it's been a true honor to be on his team. He had been at Pearl a few years by the time I came onboard in 1995 and he was already a legend. 

Today, we had a retirement party at Pearl where we heard stories, watched a photo retrospect, a really funny blooper reel, presented some gifts, and had some killer food. One of the gifts was a custom made hardcover book filled with tributes and photos from Gene's co-workers and friends throughout the industry. 

A famous Gene story was about a bell brass snare drum "that got away". Twenty years ago, he had to sell it in order to buy a computer and it was still a huge regret. In fact, that snare was only one of ten ever produced. That very snare drum was presented to Gene today after being tracked down by Pearl VP of Sales Jerry Goldenson to Memphis Drum Shop. The drum hadn't been changed since Gene last played it... original box and drumhead intact! That's such a great story!! 

In the many years of observing him in action, you can't help but see what it means to strive for the best. Instead of trying to sum up with he's meant to me, I'll share my contribution to the book:

Gene's prophetic fortune at the retirement lunch

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standard 
noun \ˈstan-dərd\

1. a level of quality or attainment.

2. an idea or thing used as a measure or model in comparative evaluations.

 
This is the word that comes to mind when I think of Gene Okamoto.

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Over the last 18 years, I’ve witnessed Gene’s constant endeavor to make things better. There’s a reason his knowledge of drum history is revered throughout the industry (and is amazing to witness in person). I’m eternally grateful for everything I’ve gained from simply being in his presence. His retirement is greatly deserved and I wish him a long and adventurous life.    

It would be really difficult for me to choose one story that encompasses Gene setting the standard… it’s just something he did every day.