Recalling “Van” VanLanen

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 6/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

To the Editor:

My name is Pat Mulvenna. This is my 25th year in the textile business and I wanted to share some information with you, about a man who played a huge role in the textile industry over several decades.

H.C. VanLanen (Van) was executive vp of Hygiene Industries. Van was the driving force which allowed Hygiene to capture nearly a 60% market share in the shower curtain business, from the late 40’s through the 80’s.

Van passed away [recently] at the age of 82. For those who knew him, he will be remembered as that soft spoken charming man that always got the job done. He was my mentor and my friend.

Sincerely, Patrick J. Mulvenna, PJM Sales, LLC Hinsdale, Ill.