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Howard Olansky Obituary
Our beloved Howard passed away on December 19, 2006 in peace. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ilene Olansky, who he dearly cared for after she suffered a serious stroke 2 years ago.
Howard also leaves behind his two daughters, Ellen and Dale Olansky, his wife's cherished care taker, Katherine Salmorin, his adorable Yorkie, Mia, and a host of friends too numerous to name.
Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, December 20, 2006 at 1:00 pm at Mount Sinai Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to one's charity of choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Howard Olansky
Sponsored by Howard's friends at NFT, ICS, FCI and TILE Magazines, and by all those who love and remember him..
Ralph Godfrey
December 14, 2022
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.
Michael Broadhurst
August 23, 2019
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.
Jean Mitchell
March 29, 2007
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.
Ralph Godfrey
February 26, 2007
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 Human Being.
RICHARD RUSSELL
February 2, 2007
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.
Marc Lester
January 31, 2007
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 was affiliated with. He never said goodbye without asking how my dad was and to please tell him he said hello.
As I read through these entries in this guest book I see, as he was with me in those few minutes at every event, a very genuine, caring and consistant man.
It will be very different this Surfaces show and all future events without those enjoyable few minutes with Howard.
He was truly a gentleman.
KEN SCHOU - The Floor Group
January 30, 2007
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.
Kent Goodman
January 22, 2007
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.
John Stern
January 19, 2007
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.
Evan Kessler
January 15, 2007
Publisher’s Letter
By Evan Kessler
This was run in the January 2007 issue of ICS Cleaning Specialist magazine.
My Thoughts On Our Industry’s Great Loss
For me, the loss of Howard Olansky is like the loss of a parent. And indeed, the role he played for over half a century in the floor covering and related industries was paternal. Howard observed, reported, took part in and informed our industry about the events, the technologies, the trials and the tribulations of our men and women in the trenches.
Howard was there at the very emergence of the onsite carpet cleaning industry some 35 years ago. He worked hand in hand with others that we consider forefathers and leaders of the carpet cleaning and restoration industry, those who formed the organizations that led to the associations of today. The people we consider the leaders of today and yesterday. Howard was the ultimate “go-to guy.”
When Howard talked, even E.F. Hutton listened. He talked to us in the pages of Western Floors, beginning in 1955, and Eastern Floors (which later merged and became National Floor Trends) Installation Specialist, which became Installation & Cleaning Specialist, and today we have ICS Cleaning Specialist and Floor Covering Installer magazines. He spoke at conventions, association meetings, supplier meetings and on the phone like a head of state, a most trusted confidant and advisor. He was the epitome of the word mentor.
We are receiving countless e-mails, cards and phone calls about the loss of Howard. None of the comments will mean more to me personally or ring more true than this:
“Having a mentor and friend as you did in Howard was a gift, and the more it hurts the more special a man he really was. You are a special person and, never having had the pleasure of meeting Howard, he will live on through you, as you have become one of my mentors and a friend.” – Peter Seltzer, Zoots Inc. operations manager.
I am honored to carry the mantle of publisher of ICS, and I do so with the teachings of my greatest mentor, Howard Olansky. Thank you, Howard, for giving our industry your wisdom, your stewardship and your kinship.
Tom Cudney
January 8, 2007
Some can only dream of leaving behind such a legacy, but Howard did it. I'm honored to have known a man who was so graced with strength and integrity. He was a tremendous example for so many of us in the fact that he would tell it like it is and still maintained that quirky sense of humor that made everyone smile. He mostly made himself laugh as he was ultimately the funniest man he knew... Howard will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
Andrew-Cynthia Aufiero
January 2, 2007
Howard was a sweet "Elf" of a man and a Giant of a friend! We'll miss him!
Terry Dollinger
December 31, 2006
Howard will be missed by everyone in the floorcovering industry and by anyone who ever met him. I know I will miss him on both accounts. He was a champion of all and stood up for what is right whether it was popular or not.
On a personal level I will miss his quick wit and his one of a kind smile. He had the ability to make everyone feel better about themselves no matter what kind of circumstances you were in. He was a positive thinker and he leaves a positive impact on everyone who knew him. Howard Olansky truly made the world a better place and for that we are all great full.
Benny Wood
December 29, 2006
Howard Olansky was a believer in people. He saw things in people that others might pass,he certainly did that in my case. He encouraged me at every level and gave the courage to step out and grow personally and in business. He has been and will continue to be one of,if not the most influential mentors in my life.He was always available to me on any matter and was a TRUE FRIEND.People have many associates but few FRIENDS, Howard was my friend and I pray I was his.
Rich Tanski
December 28, 2006
It was my misfortune for not having known Howard very long. Howard was an honest, hard working man who had the industry's best interest at heart. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Sim Crisler
December 27, 2006
I have known Howard for many years. He spoke for and was "the voice" for many in the industry that had no platform for their opinions and feelings. He was never too busy to help anyone who needed him. He was one of the really good guys and will be sorely missed.
Tom Keene
December 26, 2006
Condolences from my men, my wife & myself. I didn't get to know Howard very well, but I always read his articles in FCI, & through Pat Fell, I heard what a wonderful man that he was. I will always remember his talk at this past years CFI convention! I DO know that Howard helped to make CFi a better organization, & for that I am in his debt.
Kevin Twohig
December 25, 2006
Thinking of your family on Christmas. Our prayers are with you.
Jules Harlow
December 24, 2006
I remember Duke at the University of Iowa "a few years ago." Sardonic smile, understated wit, loyal to friends. May his memory endure as a blessing.
ROBERT WILSON
December 23, 2006
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY.
DJ Harrington
December 23, 2006
December 23, 2006
My prayers and thoughts are with the Olansky family. Howard was one of a kind. I remember one very special moment back in 1996, Howard called me at home when he heard I had a serious health scare. Howard made every CFI convention memorable.Howard was always ready,willing and able to help raise money for needy causes. I will always treasure Howard's business card we got at last years CFI convention. Howard will be missed by all who knew him. I was on the road Speaking when my wife gave me the very sad news. Howard is now in Heaven starting another magazine with all his family and friends who went before him.
With Warm Regards,
DJ Harrington,CSP
1059 Meadow Breeze Lane
Sarasota, Florida 34240
Roland Thompson
December 22, 2006
Howard was a man among men. You could always call him and ask Howard anything and he was glad to help. Howard will be missed greatly. Prayer to his family.
Roland
Dana Snyder
December 22, 2006
I would like to offer my condolences to friends & family.
Ed Korczak
December 22, 2006
It has been my honor to be one of Howard's friends since 1980. Howard was always there to share his wisdom, give his support and help any and all he met. The industry has lost a hero and I have lost a guide, a guru and a friend.
Among the blessings in my life I will count knowing Howard near the top of the list. He will be missed by all but his wisdom has been instilled in many of us so his legacy will carry on.
Ed Korczak, NWFA, Inc
Werner Braun
December 22, 2006
Although I only knew Howard for a short time, I found him to be always honest and friendly. He was a giant in the industry and will be missed by all.
Robert Varden
December 21, 2006
I don't ever remember being in the company of Howard that he didn't make me laugh. While He will truly be missed by us all, His legacy will live on forever.
Richard Bennett II, CFI #2643
December 21, 2006
Please accept our sincerest condolences. Howard was a valued asset to our industry and our lives and will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to you in your time of loss. Be assured that he will not be forgotten.
Bob Higgins
December 21, 2006
My sympathies go out to Howard's family, but also congratulations.
As witnessed by the incredible outpouring for this man, you had the priviledge of knowing him for so many years.
Andrew Fronczek "FloorWorks Inspection Services"
December 21, 2006
My deepest sympathy in in your time of sorrow. Take comfort in the love and sharing those close to you can bring during this time.
BEN BOATWRIGHT
December 21, 2006
I want to let everyone know what a personal influence Howard had on me and I will be forever grateful for his words of wisdom and encouragement.
Perry Wright "Floorcoverings Done Wright"
December 21, 2006
A true Icon of the floorcovering industry, that will be missed in the hearts of many.
With Deepest Sypathy
Jackie Jones
December 21, 2006
Please know that my wife and I really cared for Howard and enjoyed spending time with him. I learned a lot from him and will miss him greatly. Please except our deepest sympathies.
Steve Hardy
December 21, 2006
Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Howard was an inspiration to so many. He was a wonderful man and will be missed greatly, not only by the industry but also by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Kenneth & Darlene Miles
December 21, 2006
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Jim Lee
December 21, 2006
Howard a legend, a giant in our industry, a friend to all and a real lost to us personally. He gave us council, encouragement and support for over 40 years. He never failed to be there if needed by anybody, from installers to the the industrys largest maufacturers.He will be missed by us all.
Sam Allman
December 21, 2006
Howard was an honored leader in the Floor Covering Industry. I honor him and his memory. He truly made a difference in the lives of others. He will b sorely missed.
Frank O'Neill
December 21, 2006
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Howard has been such a strong presence in the floorcovering industry for so many years he will be sorely missed.
Sharon Satterfield
December 21, 2006
Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Burtco Enterprises, Inc.
Dalton, GA
Jim and Jane Walker
December 21, 2006
What a wonderful person! There are so few who really have the desire to help others during their time on earth. Howard would call CFI for names of those who needed their spirits lifted. He ALWAYS followed through and made someone’s day just brighter because he cared.
He was a staunch supporter of CFI and what it stands for in the industry! No one will ever know all things he did that were so important to the success CFI enjoys today.
How wonderful that he joined us in August at the CFI Convention. We had the opportunity to tell him how much he was appreciated and loved by all of us. That was special!
We will never forget the impact Howard made on our lives many, many years ago and the support he gave to an organization that means so much to us.
Ruth Fell
December 21, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with your family in the loss of your husband and father.
He was such a kind and gentle person. In 2003, my husband (who passed away in Jan. 2005) and I were both going through cancer treatments at the same time. Howard would call my husband, Pat, almost every day just to chat and check on our conditions. Pat always looked forward to those calls. It really lifted his spirits. I will always be grateful for everything he did for us in our time of need.
Howard will really be missed.
Bob Rennie
December 20, 2006
My deepest condolences to Howard's family, associates, and friends. Howard was a mentor and friend to many of us and will be missed.
Bob Rennie, Orcon Corporation
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