When I pulled into the Oakmont Bakery parking lot the other morning, amidst the activity of cars coming and going, bakery carts being wheeled between buildings and lots of people, I had no idea that I was about to step inside one of the largest retail bakeries in the United States! Stepping inside, the display cases seemed to never end and there was still room to fit a café at one end for coffee and pastries. I have never seen as many selections of baked goods and pastries in one place. Even with its immense size, Oakmont Bakery brought back the early memories of the friendly neighborhood baker and had a truly friendly neighborhood feel.

On the way to the interview I was thinking how much is there to write about a bakery? My mind quickly changed after meeting owner Mark Serrao, with wife Susan. As I listened to the history of how he and his family got to where they are today, a great story of faith, hard work, dedication and a passion to be the best at what they do emerged. It not only is a great story of fulfilling a family’s dream and success, but Marc Serrao’s personal journey to this place is an encouragement to any young person who works hard.

The great story behind Oakmont Bakery starts in Marc Serrao’s early teenage years. He took a job as dish boy at Donut Shack in Penn Hills and eventually was promoted to baker of cakes and donuts. He continued to work there until he graduated from high school when he moved to construction work with his dad. After a year he decided to return to the Donut Shack where he became Manager. Marc later opened his own bakery in Pittsburgh’s Warner Center. Another opportunity to run a supermarket bakery came and he made the decision to accept it. That position brought even more knowledge and training about baking. After a few years there, a friend told him about a small bakery in Oakmont.

Oakmont Bakery was started by Joseph Delia of Vandergrift and had just opened its doors when Mr. Delia suffered a heart attack and died. Justin Delia of Donghia Lumber in Vandergrift, his brother, then faced selling the new bakery. Marc Serrao met with Justin Delia and they worked out an agreement for the purchase. To this day, Marc remains thankful and appreciative of the kindness shown to him and arranging workable terms to purchase the business.

It’s twelve years later and Oakmont Bakery is still growing. Marc contributes the success to their strong faith in God, a superior product, loyal customers and dedicated friendly employees. There is a deep gratitude to those who have helped them along the way. There is a true humility when Marc speaks about the different people who have helped, the family, great employees and wonderful customers. If you have never been to Oakmont Bakery, it is well worth a trip to visit them. You can also visit their web site at www.oakmontbakery.com that is very well laid out with all their bakery goodies and a price list or you can call them at 412-826-1606.

Please read the full story online and see the exclusive video interview with Marc Serrao at http://www.alle-kiskitoday.com/webcasts/1358