Industry veteran Leo Hollander dies

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 3/10/2005 8:13:00 AM

BOCA RATON , Fla. — Leo Hollander, chairman and CEO of Hollander Home Fashions, died yesterday after a 10-month battle with cancer. He was 68.

“Leo was a man of unmatched drive and integrity who cared deeply for his family and showed tremendous passion for his business,” said Jeff Hollander, president of Hollander Home Fashions. “My father accomplished many things during his life, personally and professionally, but nothing more endearing than his dedication to his family, religion and society. He will be sorely missed.”

Hollander embarked on his career at Hollander Home Fashions in 1956 when he assisted his father, Bernard Hollander, by working on the factory floor. In 1959, he joined the company full-time and for the next 40 years grew the business into a global organization with more than 1,500 employees and $250 million in annual revenues. His son, Jeff Hollander, will assume the additional positions of chairman and CEO.

Hollander is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cynthia Hollander; his brother, Dr. Peter Hollander, his two children, Jeff Hollander and Douglas Hollander; and his six grandchildren: Gabi, Byrne, Ginger, Caitlin, Brianna and Alex.

At the family's request, donations in Leo Hollander’s name may be made to the Congregation B'nai Israel Strategic Planning Fund: 2200 Yamato Road , Boca Raton , Fla. 33431 .A funeral service will be held at Congregation B'nai Israel in Boca Raton on March 11 at 12:15 p.m.