Trans-Ocean Former Owner Theodore Hassen Passes

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 1/12/2009 12:00:00 AM

White Plains, NY —

Theodore Hassen, 74, former owner of area rug company Trans-Ocean Import Co., passed away Dec. 23.

Hassen was described as a "friend, partner, and exceptional executive" by his former partner, Allen Wagenheim, Trans-Ocean's current owner.

His long career started on the retail side of the floor covering business, first at R.H. Macy followed by Davidson's in Atlanta and lastly at May Company in Los Angeles.

In 1969, Hassen moved to the supplier side when he joined Trans-Ocean as vp of product development and marketing. More than a decade later, in 1982, he and Wagenheim together purchased the company.

Hassen remained there until 1998 when he retired and moved to Windermere, Fla.

He was on the board of directors of the Orlando Symphony and PBS' WMFE television station. Hassen is survived by sisters Barbara and Lillian. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to any charity.