Former Craftex Mills President Blum dies at 93

Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 9/28/2009 12:00:00 AM

Jupiter, Fla. —

Robert B. Blum, the former president of textiles manufacturer Craftex Mills of Pa., has died. He was 93.

Blum's father founded Craftex Mills in the early 1900s. After serving in World War II, the younger Blum returned as president of the mill, known for its jacquard fabric. He remained president until his retirement in 1984. He then sold the business to his son, Robert Jr., who owned it until it was sold earlier this year.

Blum was active on the boards of several organizations and schools while living in the Philadelphia area and later in Jupiter.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, the former Leslie Rogers; three children, Robin Smith, Robert M. Blum and Nicholas Blum; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his sister, Jean Seder. He was preceded in death by a fourth son, Jay Blum, in 2005.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peters School in Philadelphia or St. Andrews School in Middletown, Del.