Giant Floor, a family-owned flooring company serving Northeastern Pennsylvania for more than six decades, announced the passing of its founder, Peter A. Rubando, on January 12, 2026. Rubando, who founded Giant Floor in 1965, is remembered throughout the regional flooring industry as a visionary leader whose commitment to service, product quality, and community helped shape the company's long-standing reputation. His career was built on people-first values that translated seamlessly into business leadership, beginning with his work as a territory salesman before he relocated to Pennsylvania's Wyoming Valley.
In April 1965, Rubando incorporated Giant Floor in Wilkes Barre, taking what he often referred to as a "leap of faith." That leap became a lasting success story marked by resilience and service, particularly during the aftermath of the 1972 Agnes Flood, when Giant Floor worked tirelessly to help local families rebuild. From that experience emerged the company's enduring promise: "We will always be here to serve you." Under Rubando's stewardship, Giant Floor expanded across Northeastern Pennsylvania while maintaining its independent, family-owned structure, with Rubando crediting employees as the driving force behind the company's growth.
In honor of Peter A. Rubando's legacy, Giant Floor has announced the introduction of a new flooring product that reflects his commitment to durability, design, and long-term performance. Stony Brook Carpet is a versatile, residential carpet solution designed to deliver lasting comfort, durability, and timeless style. The product features a balanced construction ideal for active households, offering dependable performance while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic suitable for a wide range of interior spaces. The introduction underscores Giant Floor's continued focus on curated product offerings that meet evolving customer needs while honoring the quality standards Rubando established.
The company noted that Rubando believed innovation mattered only if it truly benefited the customer, a principle reflected in Stony Brook's combination of comfort, durability, and everyday practicality. This product launch represents more than a business development; it serves as a tangible continuation of the founder's philosophy in a market where consumer trust and product longevity remain paramount. For the flooring industry, this announcement reinforces the enduring value of family-owned businesses that prioritize long-term relationships over transactional sales, a model increasingly rare in an era of corporate consolidation.
Beyond the showroom, Rubando was widely respected for his generosity and community involvement. In 1984, he established the Andrew Rubando Scholarship at King's College, supporting higher education in the region. His influence extended well beyond business, earning him recognition as a leader who understood the broader role independent retailers play in their communities. This community-focused approach has implications for how local economies are sustained, demonstrating that business success and civic responsibility can be mutually reinforcing.
For consumers in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Giant Floor's announcement signals continuity of the service standards established over six decades, now embodied in products like Stony Brook Carpet available through their website. The company's legacy of responding to community needs, evidenced during the 1972 flood recovery, suggests that future product developments will continue to address practical homeowner concerns. In an industry where quality and installation service often determine customer satisfaction, Giant Floor's adherence to Rubando's principles offers a competitive advantage that resonates with buyers seeking reliable partners for significant home investments.
Rubando is survived by his wife, Katie Rubando, his children and stepchildren, grandchildren, and great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Mind, Music and Movement Foundation. The passing of Peter A. Rubando marks the end of an era for Northeastern Pennsylvania's business community, but his foundational values continue to guide Giant Floor's operations and product strategy, ensuring his impact on both the flooring industry and the region remains relevant for years to come.
