Howse of Karastan passes away at 51

ATLANTA — Beth Baker Howse, director of creative services for Mohawk Home's upstairs rug division, Karastan, passed away March 2. She was 51.

Born in Chattanooga, TN, and raised in Dalton, GA, Howse made the rug and carpet industry a lifetime career and passion. Her first job was with World Carpets, where she remained for more than 20 years. She then joined Galaxy. In 1995, she joined Karastan, where she is credited with establishing the "Installer Certification Program," which has added more than 1,700 qualified Karastan installers to the ranks. She also was responsible for developing one of the company's most successful retailer sales incentive programs, "Imagination," still used by Karastan dealers and their sales associates nationwide. And, as an early proponent of the Internet and new technology, her efforts earned Karastan the distinction of being one of the first — if not the first — in the floor coverings industry to offer an advertising program on CD and online.

She is survived by her husband Jon; sons Justin Baker and Jake Howse; daughters Maclain and Carson Howse; and brothers Tom, Bob and Bill.

Donations in her memory can be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.