Howard Olansky

It brings a warmth to my heart when I think of my kindly old friend. I hope that I can impart the patience, warmth, and wisdom to others that Howard provided to me.

Howard was a good man. Just as all of the posts here indicate. I knew him at the end of his career as he was winding down. He hired me, and afforded me the opportunity to make a living as a magazine writer/editor for 10 years. I wish I had shown him more respect back then, when I was all brash and insensitive. Thank you, Humble Howie, for the break you gave me in my life.

We were all so blessed by Howard's kind heart and quick wit. I distinctly remember the first time I met Howard - 1972. He and Harold were standing behind me discussing things during Chicago market. I instantly recognized his voice - introduced myself and we were friends from then on. His rich, full life continues and I hope his family finds comfort in all the wonderful memories of him.

I have known Howard for more than 25 years. Howard was a great friend, a most valuable mentor and a prominant leader in the flooring industry. I don't imagine there are very many important people or happenings over the last 50 years that Howard did not touch in his own subtle and charming way. He was a great bundle of energy in a small package. I will be poorer without his smile, counsel and friendship, but what a wonderful enrichment I have experienced from knowing this truely remarkable...

ALTHOUGH I DID NOT KNOW HOWARD OLANSKY PERSONALLY, EVERY PERSON WITH WHOM I HAVE HAD CONTACT HELD THIS MAN IN THE GREASTEST ESTEEM. HE WILL BE MISSED.

As Surfaces fast approaches, I think of how I always looked forward to seeing Howard. I have seen and spoken with him at many events since I began in the industry in 1986.

We did not have a deep relationship by any means. However, Howard always instantly recognized me and said hello with his big un-flappable smile. He would inquire what was new in my career path since the last time we met. He always pushed me to send him updated information for a press release on myself or products I...

Through two bouts with cancer and a coronary artery bypass Howard was in constant touch with me. He had the warmest, most genuine concern and always a way of uplifting ones spirit. He knew and remembered when my Doctors appointments were scheduled, almost better than I did.

In their truest sense it takes only three words to describe Howard. GENTLEMAN - PUBLISHER - HUMANITARIAN.

I will treasure his memory, as I treasured his friendship.

The tears I shed upon hearing the news wereof pain and joy.For knowing this very sweet man my life was enriched.I learned many things from Howard.He had a good heart who gave so much back to his beloved industry.

Howard thru Western Floors was one of the first to welcome me to the industry in 1974 with Wood-Mosaic. Then in 1977 he supported me editorially when we started Kentucky Wood Floors. We always discussed UCLA & Louisville basketball whenever we met. I never saw him without a smile on his face. I'll miss his sunny disposition.