Peter Amor has been remembered for his passion for cars, work ethic, appetite for adventure and, most of all, how he loved and cherished his family.
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The former Holden car dealership owner, who grew up in Warracknabeal but spent most of his life living in Ballarat, died on January 21 at the age of 71.
His wife Gwen Amor and children Penelope, Meaghan, Ben and Paige, who gifted him 12 grandchildren, paid tribute to Mr Amor at an emotional celebration service held at Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre on Tuesday.
Growing up, Mr Amor was known for his love of sport and accumulated achievements, especially in the pool and on the football oval.
After moving to Geelong to complete high school, Mr Amor returned to Warracknabeal at 19 to learn the ropes at the family business Eric B Amor Holden, which he took over following his father’s retirement.
In 1975, he moved to Ballarat with his young family to become a dealer principal and established Peter Amor Motors.
Recognised for his continued excellence and customer service, Mr Amor’s achievements included being named five times as one of Holden’s top 30 dealers nationwide.
In 1980, Mr Amor bought out Wyres Brothers, then expanded further with the purchase of KR Little Holden and Buses in Daylesford four years later.
While Mr Amor was known around town for going above and beyond, which was captured in his business jingles ‘you get a little more from Peter Amor’ and ‘Peter Amor says yes more often’, his daughter Penelope has recalled how her father managed to keep his work and family life separate.
“He worked hard, but came home, changed clothes and was ‘dad’,” Penelope said.
“Dad’s decision to retire at a relatively early age showed incredible foresight… it also enabled him to immerse himself in our lives and the lives of the grandchildren.”
Mr Amor’s commitment to service went beyond his business.
He was extensively involved in the community including Ballarat Rotary Club, which he joined in 1976 and went on to become president.
Here, he was instrumental in establishing and implementing BowelScan and Life Education programs.
Mr Amor also drove the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal and was founding member and ambassador of the Ballarat Foundation.
