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Alan Heller Obituary
Alan passed away peacefully at home after a long decline, on Friday, August 13, 2021. He was 81.
Alan was a beloved friend and shining inspiration to innumerable people in the US and abroad. He founded Heller 50 years ago and all his life remained true to his vision of "Good design at affordable prices." With his rare combination of creativity and business acumen, he worked with some of the world's leading designers, including Massimo and Lella Vignelli, Vico Magistretti, Frank Gehry, and Philippe Starck, to make great design accessible through industrial production and technology. The dinnerware and furniture that he devoted his life to producing are found in homes and museums throughout the world.
Above all, Alan will be remembered for his fabulous sense of humor, his loyalty to his friends, his warmth, charm, and charisma. He was generous, funny, quirky, curious, and fiercely independent. His favorite word was "extraordinary." He read four newspapers every day; he had strong opinions and didn't hesitate to share them. He was a strict minimalist but he also created the Gladys Goose lamp and had a life-size cow on the terrace. His work was his passion and his idea of a fun holiday was visiting factories and trade shows. He was always inventing new ideas for products. He thrived on great conversation. He loved gourmet food, but also his daily sardine sandwich at Eisenbergs, the greasy spoon near his office. He hated exercise. He told bad jokes. He could be maddeningly stubborn. He was a lifelong New Yorker who also loved Italy. He was proud to be a grandfather. He loved Jewish traditions and celebrated every shabbos with blessings. He was a true mensch.
Alan's work was devoted to manufacturing multiples, but he himself was one-of-a-kind, unique and irreplaceable.
He is survived by his sisters Suzanne Heller and Faith Heller Willinger; and by Barbara Bluestone, with whom he lived in New York for the past 20 years.
A private graveside service will be held. Donations may be made to Metropolitan Jewish Health System. May his memory be for a blessing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Alan Heller
Susan Messer
August 13, 2023
. . .two years later and still missing those yellow socks. Susan Messer
Geri Brin
August 8, 2022
Hi Alan,
Ever since you left us, I keep seeing signs of you all over Brooklyn, where I now live. A set of mugs here; dinner plates there. As beautiful today as they were when you introduced them. And, as distinctive. Just like you!
Mark Fisher
April 6, 2022
I send my friendship, which extends back 50 years. You will be remembered.......
Steve Halpern
February 16, 2022
I kept in meet & greet thru it tge years. He was always kind & conversation as we shared a common thread of being almost neighbors from WP.
Sadly I'll miss his warm smile.
SH
Andrew Goetz
August 25, 2021
Dear Barbara and Family,
I was so saddened to hear about Alan. My condolences go out to all of you.
I have so many memories of Alan, but there is one that stands out more than the others.
When Matthew and I started our business, and did not have enough chairs or dinner plates for a dinner party we were throwing in our store, I asked Alan if we could borrow a dozen Bellini Chairs and a set of Hellerware. He told me to come over to the Fifth Avenue Showroom and pick them up. When I got there, he said I should keep them for future events. I will never forget Alan's kindness and generosity; among all of my other warm memories.
Andrew Goetz
John Kouri
August 24, 2021
I had worked on and off for Alan for 15 years. Simply said it was "boot camp". More so for life than for work. Alan had a great impact on me and how I viewed the world. Much of my success and what enriches me is due to my time with Alan. I will never forget the pastrami sandwiches and I will always think of him fondly.
Jennifer Clark
August 24, 2021
Alan was a sparkling, joyful foundational block in my development as a designer and as a person. A debonaire, charming, handsome, generous dude who had many kind words and a humorous skeptical outlook - plus, he always looked me in the eye! He made us, well, he made everyone, laugh. He was wide eyed and curious about design, people, life. He amplified life - he made it bigger and more fun, and he raised my expectations of what was possible. His support was key to my early development, but oh how I am glad we were in the touch the last few years, if sparsely. His short emails were a distilled essence of the guy, great fun to take in. I will miss him terribly.
Geri Brin
August 23, 2021
I remember two big events in my life in 1971: I became housewares editor of Home Furnishings Daily and I met Alan Heller. That was the year Alan introduced Massimo Vignelli's plastic dinnerware in the US and we put it on page one of the daily newspaper. It was the first color photo we printed. I can still see the stacks of exquisite plates, bowls and mugs we set up for the shot.
Alan educated me about the housewares business and he taught me about good design and good taste, which I sorely lacked at 24 years old.
I was inspired by his passion, drive, non-stop energy, and creativity; blessed by his friendship, and flattered by his support of the publications I eventually ran.
I suspect that Barbara Turf, Sam Farber, Carl Sontheimer, Lew Salton, Lella & Massimo - and many other shining housewares stars - greeted Alan with open arms.
Alan - you were truly one of a kind.
Love, Geri
Juliet Guzzetta
August 23, 2021
Alan was an important figure in my life from the age of five when he and my mom were partners for about six years in the late 1980s. They remained close friends until her untimely passing (2005), and often included me as I was growing up in their signature "soup & a shine" lunches (a winter's bowl of soup followed by a shoe shine), or other adventures. Though I didn't see Alan frequently in my teen years, once when I was 14 or 15 and my mom was out of town he invited me solo to Seder and for me this marked the beginning of my own friendship with him. I remember talking with my mom afterwards when she asked how it went and I remarked, "Alan is really funny!" A revelation that was obvious from that point forward and also retrospectively. Fond memories with Alan seep in all the time -- I was tie-dying with mix six year old just yesterday, fussing with the saran wrap when I recalled a Woody Allen-level incident in Bridge Hampton when he couldn't get the saran to cut along the edge and ridiculously kept pulling it out longer and longer, tangling his whole arm. In my early years he offered magic tricks, and rides on his shoulders in the park. Later we tested each other's strength with jaw-breaker candies and silly improv rhyme songs that find their way to my children who are still too young to figure out the words that end up in expletives ("duck" was my favorite -- he always played along). He was generous, and goofy, kind and wise. He seemed that way to me too as I got to know him in my twenties and thirties, except then I better understood his intelligence and creativity across so many fields. I marveled at his story of how he dreamt up the ergo ergo on a plane back from Milan--how he could sketch something from paper on a plane into a real colorful object from which I often work to this day. It was special to know him with Barbara too, who he looked at so adoringly, spoke of so fondly, and who challenged and inspired him. I am deeply grateful that they both kept me in their lives all these years. Alan lives on with so many of us and the memories that run in and out of the hours. I loved you, Alan. I love you.
Tischana Noel
August 20, 2021
Hey Alan it seems so surreal me having write this. First of all I would like to say thank you for all that you've done and taught me these past few years. You never missed an opportunity to turn something into a teachable moment for both you and myself, your favorite line to say to me whenever something didn't go our way was "what can we learn from this" "what can we do to avoid this in the future". To you the lesson was way more important than the actual mistake. Working alongside you for 9+ years was more than a job we all became a family. You sent me flowers every year on my birthday no matter what. You are one of the most caring and selfless individuals I have ever met, the way you cared for others was absolutely beautiful to watch always helping someone else out in one way or another. One of your favorite things to do at the office was to order lunch from different restaurants each day; Alan you sure loved you some food :-). The Seurat that you painted over the past 50 years turned out beautiful. I could go on and on but the one thing I can say is that you definitely pushed me to be the best I could be even when I felt uncomfortable in certain situations you always pushed me to the limit and I thank you for caring that much. One of the things I will miss most about you was you sense of humor. Thanks for all that good times you will truly be missed. <3
Josh Owen
August 19, 2021
Alan's place in the pantheon of design has been secured for many years. Over the passed decade of my tenure at Rochester Institute of Technology I had the great pleasure of working closely with Alan through my various roles in the Vignelli Center, it´s special collections and also through the industrial design department. Alan was always eager to connect with our students both in person and by correspondence The depth of his experience and wisdom was matched only by the generosity of his spirit to share his knowledge. Thankfully the artifacts of his collaborative discovery process will remain in perpetuity for future generations to learn from. All of that said, it was his friendship, support and his sense of humor that I will remember best. That and sharing a sandwich and a chat at the Deli with my daughter. Ciao Maestro.
Rita D. Jacobs
August 18, 2021
Alan was an original and a man of many talents who had an amazing sense of design and a true ability to innovate. But his greatest personal assets were his warmth, sense of humor (including the bad jokes), and his loyal and generous attention to the people whom he loved. Barbara, my heart and thoughts are with you-you were the pinnacle in his eyes and heart
Stefan Mueller
August 17, 2021
To me, Alan was the most influental person I ever met. Call him a mentor, but he was more than that. With his curious mind, his generousity and passion he inspired me in learning italian, loving food, developing a sense of design, architecture and culture.
Working with him for three intensive years, I have a bunch of strong and funny memories. For example going with the train to a factory somewhere in Italy in the early morning, discover production, going back, discussion on possibilities. And than, at some point he just fall asleep while talking - within the sentence. Or drinking and toasting: "chairs"... Or his "endless lectures" on appropriateness and what Heller is and not.
Yesterday it was raining. I sat down on my Gehry Sofa in the garden and had a drink on you, Alan. Hope you take your seat with me in Cologne in the future again.
Avi Flombaum
August 16, 2021
Alan provided me with countless memories, advice, inspiration, insight, and sandwiches at Eisenberg's Deli. He was a loving, creative, and passionate person that shared his taste and perspectives with the world. We are all a little bit better because we were lucky enough to have Alan in our lives. Thank you Alan, I see you and I love you.
Charles Robinowitz
August 16, 2021
Alan was certainly unique, and a joy to be around. We still have his plates and wastebaskets. I was part of when it all started. When golfers would hit golf balls into his backyard, he had Roger Kaufman and me clean the balls and sell them back to the golfers. He, of course, gave us some of the profits. What I also remember about Alan is one of his first jobs. When I and a friend attended the US Open in 1958 at Winged Foot in Mamaroneck, we were struggling to see the golfers. When we got to the 18th hole, there was Alan with the best view of all, as a security guard keeping spectators back from the green. Not only did he have the best view of all, but he was paid for it. We had cards in the family, and Alan was one of them. It was a pleasure to be around him.
Karen John
August 16, 2021
Like many others, I was grateful to call Alan a mentor and a friend. It´s clear now, that within the design community we were all dots, and Alan was the line connecting us, helping and inspiring us along...
Alan´s super power was his authenticity. He was fiercely Alan. Years ago, he told me that he was committed to being the most Alan he could be every day until he died. Not the "best" Alan, the "most" Alan. And he did just that.
As others have noted, he saw himself as an inventor and he was always tinkering with his next big idea. The last time I saw him, he had two new business ideas. His eyes lit up when he talked about them. And he had the giddy smile of an 8 yr old who had somehow found the biggest cookie in the jar.
That, and an enviable full head of hair, is how I will remember dear Alan. Heller 4-Ever.
Sending lots of love to Barbara and the Heller family.
Josh & Bonnie
August 16, 2021
Barbara - We are sad to hear about Alan. Whenever he'd visit us at Eisenberg's, our day would get a little bit brighter. Sending you our deepest condolences.
Joseph O'Connor
August 16, 2021
Please accept my sincere condolences.
Rino Pirovano
August 16, 2021
The brightest and fastest, "independent player" I have ever met
Christine Mullen & Christopher Grikscheit
August 15, 2021
Alan's brilliant wit and love of both the sublime and the ridiculous will always be present in our hearts and minds. His creative force will continue to inspire many.
Beth Dickstein
August 15, 2021
We shared laughs, lunch and a passion for original design. To me, he's a true original. My deepest condolences to Barbara and his famiy...and to all his friends. We lost a wonderful, funny and kind person. Rest in peace dear Alan.
Susan Messer
August 15, 2021
I will always remember Alan and his signature yellow socks.
Valentina Vignelli
August 15, 2021
In the early seventies, Alan was often a guest at our house in Riverdale for an Italian Sunday lunch with our family. Laughter was never lacking as he always came with a fresh batch of jokes, some only for adults, but also always some for us kids. As a six year old, I remember thinking he looked like a TV star, so perfectly 70's. As the years went by, he never aged in appearance or spirit! At all! A true mensch of his time, plastic and all.
Ciao Alan.
Shernette parkes
August 14, 2021
I was mr Heller caregiver for two years and eight months.He was one of my best client,a sweet soul.He´ll forever be in my heart; rest In Peace.
Steve Rogin
August 14, 2021
I met alan in 1971 when he exploded in the design world with the dinnerware. That decade was exhilarating for a small group of people and friends who were illuminated by what was called - good design.
I admired his warm heart, love of life, and a heart warming sense of humor. In the past few years I was so impressed by the wide circle of friends and collaborators. I always told him that I thought he was an inventor with a exquisite eye.
I remember his adoration of exuberance of his times with Barbara in Milano. His home away from home;
and the simple, elegant food.
Eating was aesthetic. A joy to the senses.
We often laughed at how two guys could just be silly, like boys playing. When I was blessed to see him last i told him that i loved him and would see him soon.
Such is the golden bond we can have with the important people in our lives.
Steve Rogin
August 14, 2021
We became friend 50 years ago. There was a small and wonderful group of excited young people in the design world. It was exciting, fun and work was pleasure.
Alan became a prominent fellow in the rarified world of what was then called "good design" ... and so much from Italy - where I know he and Barbara were immersed in the simple and exhilarating Milanese cuisine.
He and I shared a love of life as adventure. Rich.
Rewarding. Tough times and wonderful times.
I was so taken by his quiet fame. He knew so many fine and talented people. I admired his gift to connect with sincerity and laughter.
He talked about his legacy in work. I said, "don't worry", you are my dude. This became our name for each other. A loving friendship.
Nancy Jane Bendtsen
August 14, 2021
Dear Barbara,
these are such beautiful words about Alan. He was such a fixture on the design scene. One of the first people that Niels introduced me to. Bad jokes! Yes! Strong ideas! Of course!
Niels remembers the simple trade fair booths. Simple products. And Alan with the good humor, good sense and fun! Always a joy to see.
But my mostest memories are of Alan´s generosity.
20 years ago when I was alone at the Cologne fair after Niels had his stroke, Alan was such a support for me. He showed me his stunning quarter up the wall trick. And so many others. All perfected after many years sitting at trade fairs. I was so freaked out and his kindness still makes me weepy.
And the last huge kindness when we were able to purchase the remaining Selene chairs to donate to Arts Umbrella here in Vancouver. The chairs are perfect for a new children´s art facility.
And of course there are the wonderful memories of you two together. Lovebirds!
We send you huge hugs.
We will miss him of course but mainly we will delight in having known him.
Niels and Nancy
Evelyn Shrier
August 14, 2021
Just want to add that I have known Alan for about 45 years... we met at a Spa in Mexico - Alan and his friend Paul and I with a friend Gloria, but he and I have kept in touch up until last week... I miss him already... Thank you Barbara for your help... ~E~
Evelyn Shrier
August 14, 2021
My deepest sympathy to Barbara, Suzanne and Faith, and all who loved Alan... I wish you all long life filled with good health, strength and courage... keep all your fond memories close to your hearts... Fondly, Evelyn
John edelman
August 14, 2021
RIP Alan
Alan was our friend. We had to earn his trust and friendship. Once that friendship was made, it was forever.
One of my favorite lunches was when I brought my then 17 year old daughter along. I no longer existed. Alan and Olivia bantered the whole time and a few weeks later she was his date for a @beoriginalamericas annual meeting.
His fear was that great design was dead. My job was to ensure him that every day design was fighting and winning.
This picture was from 2010 when John McPhee and I took over DWR and the New York Times wrote about it. Alan was then a doubter. We won him over.
Thank you Alan, and Barbara please accept our condolences.
Roberto Brambilla
August 14, 2021
I admired Alan for his creative optimism and sense of humor and I am sorry not to have been able to socialize with him during the last ten years.
I will miss him dearly.
Roberto Brambilla
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