ATLANTA—Frank Pino, a veteran industry executive and salesman, passed away on Friday, June 13—his 77th birthday—at his home here following a lengthy illness.

In a career spanning more than 50 years, Pino held positions with Bigelow-Sanford Carpet Co., Coronet Industries, Marglen and Salem Carpet Mills, before starting his own retail business in Atlanta called Carpets of Distinction, in order to service the upscale designer community.

“To all those who knew Frank, he was one of the more unforgettable and colorful characters in the industry,” said Irv Bravman of MSB Associates. “His recollections of the development of the tufted carpet industry and the people connected with it were extensive and fascinating.”

Born in Philadelphia, Pino graduated from Roxborough High School and served in the Army during the Korean War.

He is survived by daughters Debbie Saballett of San Diego and Cydney Reid of Wesley Chapel, Fla.; a son, Frank Pino Jr., of San Diego; three grandchildren, three brothers and a sister, and by his friend, Charlotte Barclay of Atlanta.

The family asks that contributions in Pino’s memory be made to Hospice Atlanta, 1244 Park Vista Drive, Atlanta, GA 30319.