News

Steve Portocarrero passed away Monday, June 7 from Lou Gehrig's Disease, or ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), which he was diagnosed with two years ago.

Steve worked at Ortofon in operations and sales from 1983 to 1991, followed by five years at Krell as national sales manager, and finally at Wilson Audio for the last two years, until he was no longer able to work because of his illness.

Steve's last year was a strong contrast to his incredible energy, drive, and commitment, both in his personal life and toward the companies he worked for. Steve put pride in being physically in top shape, and he was able to use this strength both physically and mentally. He did not need assistance to wheel the largest high-end amplifiers around, yet he mastered the sensitivity and refinement that was required to persevere in the highest-of-the-high-end audio market.

Steve was one of the most genuinely unselfish individuals I have ever known. He literally went out of his way to assist his friends and business acquaintances---and, on top of that, he had the type of personal radiance that made it truly enjoyable to spend time with him.

Not surprisingly, Steve won the heart of the prettiest girl in the Ortofon office, and married Michele in 1986. Their daughter, Alexandra, was born in 1995.

Should anyone wish to express their sympathy to Michele and Alex, please consider doing so through donations to the Alexandra Brooke Portocarrero Scholarship Fund, c/o New Haven Savings Bank, Attn: Lillian Damico, 1021 Boston Post Road, Guilford, CT 06437. (203) 453-6585.

---Jens P. Pedersen, Group Vice President, Satair A/S