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Viktor Schreckengost
Viktor Schreckengost
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Viktor Schreckengost Obituary
Schreckengost died Saturday while visiting family in Tallahassee, Fla., said Brenda Jackson of the Viktor Schreckengost Foundation on Sunday.
Schreckengost, a 2006 winner of the National Medal of Arts, was best known for his 1930s "Jazz Bowl" series, commissioned by Eleanor Roosevelt for the White House. The electric blue and black porcelain bowls, inspired by the sights and sounds of New York City, became icons of the Art Deco era.
Schreckengost incorporated fine design into mass-produced goods in an effort to make aesthetically pleasing, functional items available to everyone. His industrial designs include bicycles sold by Sears, iconic children's pedal wagons, lawn chairs, sit-down lawn mowers and even American Limoges dinnerware.
"It's function. That's what I was always attracted to," Schreckengost told The Associated Press in a 2006 interview. "You get to the basic form first and then the color and texture and all the other stuff added to it so it becomes very complicated, even though it appears simple."
His innovations spanned several industries. He helped design the first cab-over-engine truck in 1932 for the White Motor Co., which increased hauling capacity. He was lead designer for bicycles and toy pedal cars for the Murray Ohio Co. from 1938 to 1972, and designed printing presses for the Harris-Seybold and Chandler Harris companies.
Schreckengost was born in 1906 in Sebring, a commercial pottery town near Youngstown. He studied ceramics at the Cleveland Institute of Art and the Kunstgewerbeschule in Vienna, and taught at the Cleveland Institute of Art in the early 1930s.
During World War II, he joined the Navy, where he was recruited to develop a system for radar recognition which won him a commendation from the Secretary of the Navy.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
46 Entries
Kyrie Rook
October 3, 2023
One of my great grandfathers were Victor Shreckengost. I don't know him because he died before I was born, but my mom knew him and she said he taught here a little German.
Gretchen Gaede
February 18, 2008
Our family has known Viktor over many generations. My great grandfather, Henry Turner Bailey taught Viktor at Cleveland School of the Arts where he served as Dean.
My father has a wonderful print of Viktor's signed and dedicated to him and I had the pleasure of working with Viktor this past year at his home collaborating on an art project that spun off of his Jazz Bowl series. He and his wonderfully inspiring work have delighted many generations of our family and we are
honored to have had our lives touched by this great man.
Alberta Cifolelli
February 17, 2008
I feel most fortunate to have known Viktor - a Renaissance man.
Richard Foley
February 16, 2008
God bless Viktor and his family. I was an engineer with the Harris-Seybold Co. and fondly remember working with his company as they coordinated the colors and appearance of our graphic arts equipment.
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Ruth (Schreckengost) Neil
February 15, 2008
Please accept my heartfelt condol-ences on your loss. Viktor is one of many of my family I have lost in the past 11 months. It is a difficult time for all of us. But he is now with the Lord, waiting for the rest of us to make this journey.
Ann Pallotta Nagin
February 13, 2008
The impact of, and reverberation from the life and accomplishments of Viktor Schreckengost, will affect Cleveland positively! for a very long time. What joy you have imbued our lives with, Viktor! My humble thanks and deep appreciation.
Joseph Pierce
February 12, 2008
The passing of Viktor Schreckengost came a week after I introduced him to my art students at Empire Computech via the book on his life and work. I had just gotten the kiln running at the school and introduced them to clay and Viktor at the same time. Everything I wanted to teach them had been mastered by Viktor, including animals which is our second ceramic project. All of them knew his Elephants from the Zoo. I had the pleasure to have met him at Ursuline College while talking to Moses Pearl. The two of them with their walkers spotted each other across the gallery. Moses, with his mustache intact, yelled, "Hey Vik!" and they shuffled toward each other with all haste. It is a moment I will always remember. Just listening to these two was like reliving art education history in Cleveland. I was teaching in Moses Pearls old South High (now A.B. Hart) art room the day of his funeral and I was teaching Schreckengost in my art room when you laid him to rest. I hope I can pass their love of being productive contributing artists on to the next generation of Cleveland art students. God Bless and keep you in this time of loss. You are not alone.
Joe Pierce-Art teacher
Viktor Schreckengost chatting with Suzanne Russell and her mom, Audrey Russell at Art On Wheels exhibit of his artwork
Carolina Martin
February 9, 2008
I have visited this page many times since I heard of the passing of this dear gentleman, Viktor Schreckengost, just staring at it and wondering how to put so much into just a few words. This great Master Artist and his loving family have made miracles happen with the overwhelming gentleness and kindness that they have shown to our Art On Wheels family. We have learned so very much by studying Viktor's techniques, especially that of questioning, always staying curious. We were so blessed to be recipients of his belief that art should be available to everyone, especially as he visited all of us and kissed the hand of each and every lady, including all of our dear friends with and without disabilities. Not only did Viktor accept everyone, he showed genuine interest in their blessings. He has indeed transformed the lives of all of us forever, from my personal family to those whom we serve in the community and, I am certain, to include millions of individuals worldwide. All from this humble, gentle, gentle man. May God enfold Viktor's family in His loving arms and bring them healing and many, many smiles as they carry their extraordinary memories with them in their hearts forever. May God keep Viktor in His infinite loving care. Please let us know if we can help in any way.
Gretchen D
February 7, 2008
God bless your soul, Viktor Schreckengost.
Mary and Dan Reed
February 6, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
John Schrecongost
February 3, 2008
I thank Cousin Viktor for all he has done, what an accomplishment. He followed in the footsteps of many more industrial artisans of the family.
Patty Sullivan-Cogan
February 2, 2008
"Uncle Vic" as we the neighborhood children called him, will be remembered for the time he spent with us roasting peanuts and showing us how he gardened in his yard. A generous man, very unassuming and sincere. He will be remembered fondly.
Chip Thole
February 2, 2008
A most creative and prolific designer, a supreme example to all who wish to create.
Chandler V. Bueler
February 1, 2008
Going through the obits to look for my sister's guestbook and ran across Mr. Schreckgost's tribute. Although I have never met him, from what has been posted here, he sounded like a wonderful husband, father, and friend to many. I am sure his family will miss him. My sincere thoughts and prayers to all who knew him.
Ed & Nanci axel
February 1, 2008
We will miss Vik. My teacher,mentor and friend for over 57years. While a student at CIA,in 1950 , my first job as a designer in N.Y., thru the many years thereafter Vik was my insperation,and the one person who was responsible for the successes in my professional career.There were many times during interviewing designers, that I would say to them,"you went to the wrong school, and should hgave had Vik as your teacher" I really meant what I said. Nanci,I, and my family will miss Vik. A great teacher and wonderfull friend
Michelle Casey-Perez
January 31, 2008
I have been privileged to read and hear accounts of what a wonderful man Viktor was. I pray you all keep the fond memories of him and that these memories as well as time will heal your pain. God bless and keep you all.
Carla Blackman
January 31, 2008
I have always looked up to Viktor Schrekengost. He has been such an influence on my life, first as a young designer at Greenlee-Hess, then as a teacher at CIA. It was always great to have him in a critique with his pointed questions and then a story or two about his life as a designer. We certainly stand on the shoulders of a giant.
My sympathies go out to Jean and his family, may peace be with you.
Janine Casey
January 31, 2008
Dear Family,
The passing of a loved one is never easy. Life changes upon death as extremely as it does upon birth. His passing is Viktor's new birth into the most beautiful canvas imaginable.
My prayer for you is comfort in knowing what a significant legacy this dear man leaves, and for peace that you will always have him with you as long as you relive precious memories of your time together.
God bless you and cradle you in His loving arms until you feel strength enough to continue. May He join you as you journey through your life with the contentment that can only come from having loved and been loved in mind, heart and spirit.
I am grateful to have been a part of the Nowacek family past and pray desperately for their happy future.
.
Jane Hannon
January 30, 2008
Vik was an artist, a designer, and just a fun individual to spend time with. I was privileged to spend a great deal of time with him. He designed for Murray and was instrumental in making it a successful company for many years. He will live on with me as I am fortunate to have some of his paintings that I enjoy every day. God Bless.
Mrs. Lakewood
January 30, 2008
The Staff and Students of Lakewood High School (as well as the City of Lakewood Residents) will always admire "Early Settler" (aka "Johnny Appleseed") as a truly inspirational work of art. His legacy is timeless and he will live on through his many pieces such as this, as well as his influence on bicycles and lawn chairs that are simply sophisticated. We were very fortunate to have such a legacy!
John Zagara
January 30, 2008
On behalf of myself, family and staff at Zagara's, I wish to extend our deepest sympathy on the passing of Mr. Schreckengost. His work has and continues to inspire and enrich so many... his gentle humility graced us all. Our hearts and thoughts go out to you especially at this time and in the days ahead.
Renate Jakupca
January 30, 2008
ARK in Berea - Like many other fans, American Cultural Ambassadors David and Renate Jakupca were was deeply saddened to hear of this of Victor's passing. He was truly a gift to all of us! His talent was immense and his potential was limitless. It was a honor, as fellow artists, to have witnessed his growth as an designer in the many roles he undertook. With that beautiful and genuine smile that warmed the heart, Victor captured the hearts of many. Our sincere condolences go to the Schreckengost family and the rest of his many friends and fans. Gain comfort in knowing that he was truly beloved.
Sue Toukonen- McLaughlin
January 30, 2008
I grew up next door to Uncle Vik as all the neighborhood children called him. I spent hours with him building small fireplaces made out of stones and roasting peanuts in the back yard.I spent many hours in his studio trying to learn how to draw, but never could.I saw him last in December 2006 and talked about old times and planting flower bulbs upside down so the would bloom in China which is what we laughed about. I will miss this great man who ment so much in my live as a child and an adult. UNCLE vIK YOU ARE ALREADY MISSED.
Sue Toukonen- McLaughlin
January 30, 2008
I grew up next door to Uncle Vik as all the neighborhood children called him. I spent hours with him building small fireplaces made out of stones and roasting peanuts in the back yard.I spent many hours in his studio trying to learn how to draw, but never could.I saw him last in December 2007 and talked about old times and planting flower bulbs upside down so the would bloom in China which is what we laughed about. I will miss this great man who ment so much in my live as a child and an adult. UNCLE vIK YOU ARE ALREADY MISSED.
darlene royster
January 30, 2008
virgene, I want you to know that I am still here for you and the family, and thanks for the opportunity for me to work with Viktor, I will miss him dearly.
kim taylor
January 29, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Viktor. I will cherish the memories and pictures i have of him when i met him for the first time this past summer in sebring, ohio. He will be greatly missed by all!!!! God Bless.
Sandra Laessig
January 29, 2008
Robert and I feel both honored and blessed to have been a friend.
Sandra and Robert Laessig
Gary & Janet Fortney
January 29, 2008
Virgene, we want to send our sympathy and for you to know we are thinking of you. We loved Vik's stories. He was so unique and a joy to listen too, besides seeing all the things he had made.
What an inspiration for so many.
Love, Janet & Gary
Susie Sharp
January 29, 2008
Such a sweet and gentle soul! He started the Children's section at the Cleveland Art Association (cARTa)and we were delighted to have Viktor and Jean as our guests at our 2006 cARTa event at CIA. He attracted children like magnets, enthralled the women and was game for a martini at 100. Revered world-wide as well as in his Cleveland Heights neighborhood, he strove to make art accessible for all. His vibrance, passion and joie de vie will truly be missed. All my best to Jean and the family.
Beth Schick
January 28, 2008
I will greatly miss my Great Uncle Vik. He was such an inspiration to myself and so many others. I will always remember his laughter, his smile, and the wonderful drawings he made in all my childhood birthday cards. What a remarkable life to have lived and to have shared so much with others. Love you..
Mary Twiford
January 28, 2008
As a little girl, I attended the Saturday art classes at the Museum many times.. Mr. Schreckengost's face was very familiar to me..My artist Mother took me, religiously, every Sat. for a long time.. Thank you for a lifelong love of the Cleveland, and many other,museums....The swans, "The Thinker", the dinosaur,the "Boy With
Turtle", Wade Park and the great beauty there will remain in my heart for ever.. 'Tis true, one person DOES make a difference..Mary June O'Connor Twiford.,[email protected].
Carol Davis
January 28, 2008
I did not know Mr. Schreckengost, but I loved his watercolors. I especially admired the paintings he did for the local public television auction. I could never afford one, but I sure enjoyed looking. Rest in peace.
Randy Morris
January 28, 2008
RIP MR. Schreckengost thank u for all your knowledge & skills. To the family you have all my eternal prays and sympathy.
Marjorie Juba
January 28, 2008
So sad to hear of his passing. Was privileged to have seen his exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art a few years back and of finding out how much his work interacted with mine. Have a copy of one of his pedal planes for kids hanging in the room my grandson sleeps in when he visits. Such great mind. He'll be missed and loved by many for certain. God bless you.
Mary Beth Cassey
January 28, 2008
Dear Gene,
I am so sorry for your lose. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God has been gracious in His acceptance of Viktor to His kingdom.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
January 28, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the Schreckengost family in the loss of Viktor.
Karen Woodcock
January 27, 2008
I saw some of his pottery years ago. It was very beautiful. Mr. Schreckengost had the face of a loving friend. I am sure he was that to many people. We need more like him. I am sorry for your loss.
Valli (Lukehart) Finney
January 27, 2008
I never knew Mr. Schreckengost, but he sounded like a wonderful man. I live in Tallahassee and was wondering if he had a relative by the name of "Robbie" who lived in Bellefontaine, Ohio, in 1967-68? I've always wondered what happened to him as he was my "boyfriend" in first grade. If Mr. Schreckengost was related to Robbie, then I can understand where Robbie got his manners and sensitivity. We had just moved to the area, and Robbie took me underwing. I'll never forget the Schreckengost family. ([email protected])
Will McMurphy
January 27, 2008
Thank you for making a real difference in this world. You will be missed.
Chauntai Allen
January 27, 2008
May God be with Viktor Schreckengost family at this time.
Don't be sad because he's up in heaven looking down on you now.
Keep your heads up because God knows best.....
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