Pamela J. Elgaaen

Class of 2001

Born August 3, 1943, in Coeur d’ Alene, ID, Pam graduated from Opportunity High School in Washington and attended Washington State University.

Pam and Gary Elgaaen married in 1978 and raised five children – Tammy, Kirsten, Dan, Karen and Chris. The couple has four grandchildren.

Pam began her career as a United Airlines flight attendant, later serving as an office manager at Schiller Park Apartments. In 1976, Pam joined Elgaaen-Booth & Co. Inc. as retail supervisor where, at the time of her induction, she served as chief financial officer and head of customer service for the company.

With more than 24 years experience in the business, Pam says receiving this award and her first 1,000 case order are her most memorable career moments to date.

According to Pam, the biggest influences in her career have been Bill Ross, her mentor at Elgaaen-Booth, and her husband, Gary.

For those who wish to emulate her success, Pam offers the following advice: Work hard when you work and play hard when you play, treat your employees like family and enjoy your work and life.

Away from the business, Pam enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, traveling, hiking, backpacking and mountain climbing.