IN MEMORIAM
We regret the
passing of the following B&B alumni:
Richard Thorne
August 4, 2018
By Gary Langstaff
On Saturday, 4 August, we lost yet another member of our unique family. And I lost one of the closest friends I've had the good fortune to have. Richard Thorne passed away quite unexpectedly … as best as we know at the moment, attributable to injuries from a fall.
Cast together as Assistant Account Executives on Crest in 1972, we shared an "inside office" far too small for the two of us, barrel chairs and filing cabinets full of film copies of commercials. Even so much as a pivot of a chair banged into the other … which, in turn, precipitated a usually "colorful" verbal exchange! Poor Bill Munro, our AE at the time, was subjected to a regular epithet of character assignations that the unaware eavesdropper could interpret as a prelude to fisticuffs!
In fact, nothing could be further from the truth …
Richard (NEVER "Rich" or, God forbid, "Dick" … although I confess to occasional use of the latter with a lower case "d" and the addition of "head"!!) and I became incredibly close friends … a friendship that has only grown these past 46 years. And, I am honored to say, this friendship expanded to include Lesley, his wife of 40 years; Elektra, his daughter, and Eric, his son as well as my family.
I accept (albeit grudgingly and NOT happily) we have lost far too many of our family over the years, a sad reality of life. Each of these creates a hole in our heart, which, fortunately, we can at least partially plug with memories.
I confess that for me, the hole Richard's passing created in my heart will take a long time to plug, much less, heal. We had talked about people we wanted to see again; places we wished to visit together and experiences yet to be had … never once considering any constraint of time.
I shall miss you, Richard, more than words can fully express. You were a true and trusted friend; and there is no greater compliment I can extend you. I promise you I shall never forget all we shared, even if each recall prompts a severe case of sweaty eyes! I am a better person today for the privilege of our friendship, which makes for a debt I am unlikely able to ever repay given your absence.
Thank you, m'friend. Rest in peace …
Ratso (aka Gary Langstaff)
Richard Thorne. August 29, 1946 - August 4, 2018
By Diane Dudzinski
What a shock it was to get Lesley's call about Richard Thorne's passing! While he did develop some physical challenges over the last few years, no one expected it would lead to this…the loss of a husband, father, brother, grandfather, dear friend.
Richard and I met at Benton & Bowles in the early 70's. We didn't work together but our offices were close enough to often engage in conversations and strike up a friendship. We became pals. To the point where whenever one of us didn't have a date on a holiday or significant occasion, we would accompany each other to the event.
At one New Year's Day party at one of his friend's, we both met Lesley. I think Richard fell in love with her immediately but of course would never have admitted it…macho men don't do that! And he loved the idea of winning her over from the guy she was dating who was with her that day at the party. And over the years Lesley and I have become very close friends, and at the same time Don's and my relationship grew with both of them.
My last conversation with Richard focused on all of the things he was involved in and planning to do going forward…inventing a device to hold ladies pocketbooks at a restaurant, writing a screenplay, a book, as well as others. It was like he was telling me that in spite of the physical ailments he was enduring, he still had the stamina and brain power to do all of these exciting, inventive and creative things.
Richard was brilliant in terms of turning an ordinary space into a beautiful home. I guess that came from his having studied architecture before he got into advertising. Every place he and Lesley lived in eventually evolved into a well-designed and crafted environment.
I miss him and our conversations and his love of life and those he embraced. Richard was a wonderful friend. He loved living and I hate that he's left this life all too soon.
Many B&B'ers didn't know that the idea of the B&B Alumni gatherings was born at an informal get together at Richard & Lesley's in 2000.
Gary Langstaff tells the story so beautifully below.
Richard Thorne and the Origin of the B&B Reunions
By Gary Langstaff
During one of my weekly visits to NYC, I was on a subway headed uptown … standing/holding onto grip, when seated immediately below me was Sylvia Holm-Jensen, who I had not seen in a number of years. We visited during the couple of stops before I had to depart the train and agreed that we needed to get together. Upon emerging from the subway, I ran into David Kreinik and after another brief visit, headed to meeting. Leaving that meeting, I ran into Ken Hite.
Returning to Richard & Lesley Thorne's 19th St. residence, where I stayed during my visits to NYC, I shared the multiple B&B encounters. We agreed we should try to get a few of the B&B folks together and Richard & Lesley offered to host the initial event. I believe we had about 20 folks attend. R&L committed to hosting a second such get-together roughly a year later. This time, however, the "word" was out and their backyard and home were jammed.
Attendees had a grand time and the idea of a formal "annual reunion" … albeit at a location other than R&L's residence, was born. Vicky Amon emerged as the coordinator (a role she did masterfully throughout the years) and, together with a number of other volunteers, the idea of a "Reunion" became an "Event".
The third event in 2002 (but first "official" event per our website) grew dramatically in the number of attendees. More important still, joining that third event was Jack Bowen, Al Hampel, Jack Taylor, Mike Moore. Stam Nishimura, Tom Carey, Gerry Bauman. Arty Selkowitz (and more) which effectively "sanctioned" the "event" via their attendance.
There are many of us who refer still to being a part of a "family" while at B&B. Admittedly, there are those who scoff at the idea, arguing that a workplace is just that … a workplace. That there is no such working environment that can even remotely be referenced as "family." In reality, only those of us who were a part of B&B are entitled to an opinion. I, for one, endorse the idea of "family" … and am proud to be a member thereof.
And I credit Mr. B for his steadfast priority on respect. I genuinely believe this principle proved the foundation of the agency's success. Kudos as well to those members of "Management" who promoted this principle over time. It made the agency not just stronger, but distinctive. And, in some form or another, it made each of us "B&B-ers" better people … regardless of our post-B&B professional travels.
As attested to by so many who attended the reunions over the years, B&B is and will always be a source of special memories and friendships. Not many "workplaces" earn such credit.
Carl Wheeler Nichols Jr.
March 23rd, 2018
In Norwalk, Connecticut after a long illness and surrounded by his family. Carl was a devoted and beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.
Called "Chip" by his family and friends, Carl was born in Port Chester, NY on June 23rd, 1955 the son of Carl and Joan Nichols. He grew up in Darien where he attended Darien High School before studying economics at the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Carl was a man of many talents, interests and boundless creativity. He was an accomplished business executive, published author, talented guitarist and formidable opponent on the tennis and paddle courts. He was at his happiest in the wild spaces of the Adirondacks or the rolling Chiltern hills in England with his family and friends.
Professionally, Carl achieved forty successful years in the advertising agency and strategic marketing business. Carl's career started at Grey Advertising in New York, before moving to D'Arcy, Masius, Benton & Bowles where he rose to Global Director of the Proctor & Gamble and Mars accounts. Carl's career took him around the world. In 1990 he relocated to the UK and Eastern Europe, helping to establish the first western advertising agency offices behind the former Iron Curtain.
He was passionate and stimulated by his work, devoting himself to help businesses create unique and powerful brands. After a decade in the UK, Carl returned to the USA to become CEO of Einson Freeman. In 2003 he co-founded his own company, David ID, where he successfully helped companies bring their ideas to life in the marketplace.
In recent years Carl served on the Board of Directors of Fox Racing Shox, Liberty Safe, ERGObaby, Deep River Snacks and Solera Capital.
In 2006, he co-authored the business book Why Johnny Can't Brand published by Portfolio Books. It was selected by Strategy + Business magazine as one of the five best marketing books of 2006.
Among a long list of accomplishments in his life, Carl's greatest joy was his family who adored him and will miss him every day. He provided them with his strength, confidence, security, energy, humor, infectious curiosity and endless pursuit of knowledge. He was a wonderful storyteller, who loved nothing more than playing with his sons and making them laugh. He enjoyed and cherished lifelong friendships and valued the amazing transatlantic community that surrounded him throughout his life.
Carl is survived by his wife, Shirley of Rowayton, CT and three sons, Ben (Amy), Will (Anna) and Luke. He is also survived by his sister Nancy Sundeen (Dick), brother Matt Nichols (Lynn), stepmother Anna Nichols, stepsiblings Cliff Norris (Julie), Meg Norris and Lindsay Durfee (Barry), nieces and nephews, grandnieces and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father Carl, mother Joan, and sister Christine Ferrer (Esteban).
A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, April 6th at 3 PM, at The United Church in Rowayton.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Carl's memory to the Adirondack Council (https://www.adirondackcouncil.org).
Peter Rosow
March 5, 2018
With sorrow we report another Peter's death, Peter Rosow, who for years headed up the NY office of DMB&B. From his NYTimes obit: Peter lived in New York City, Woodbury, CT and Palm Beach, FL, and died peacefully at home in New York on March 5, 2018. He is survived by Rebecca, his beloved wife of 38 years, his children James and Anne of whom he was so proud, their spouses Nicole Rosow and Patrick McNulty, and his grandchildren in whom he took such delight: Leah and Susannah Rosow and Violet and George McNulty. Also survived by former wife Natalie Robinson and sister Marlaya Charleston. Predeceased by daughter Elizabeth. Born in NYC on October 6, 1937 to Helen and Seymour Rosow, Peter was a retired advertising executive and accomplished equestrian. He was smart, funny, warm, generous, optimistic and full of grace. And handsome. A joy to be with and to love. Miraculous six year survivor of pancreatic cancer; resilient and brave to the end. The funeral will be on Thursday, March 8 at 11:30am at Frank E. Campbell, 1076 Madison Ave, NYC. Family will receive visitors on Thursday from 4pm to 8pm at 785 Park Avenue, NYC. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Joseph T. Ruggiero Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, 1305 York Avenue, NYC 10021.
Peter Nord
October 29, 2017
It's with heavy heart that we note the loss of our wonderful Peter Nord who died on Sunday, October 29, 2017.
Of course many of us worked with Peter during our B&B days (and until recently, Don Blauweiss & Diane Dudzinski worked with him at their own agency after B&B), but the rest of us had the pleasure of being with him again these past 15 years through our alumni reunions. Peter's graceful, elegiac yet sharp and witty prose helped memorialize how we all felt about the agency and its passing. He shines through in his introduction to our website and to each reunion event: he makes us smile at the good times and bad, nod at the accuracy of his observations, and relive the friendships we all forged.
He was always a total pleasure to work with: a truly fine man, highly talented, kind, even-keeled, helpful and with a great sense of humor about the, at times, absurdity of life. He will be sorely missed.
Ruth Levine
October 18, 2017
Ruth dedicated herself to Benton & Bowles, spending most of her working career as the agency's casting director. In 1972, she was promoted to Vice President, becoming one of B&B's first female executives. In addition to casting our commercials, Ruth cast The Edge of Night, the ground-breaking Proctor & Gamble soap opera (indeed, the opening scenes for decades featured the Cincinnati skyline to represent the fictional Midwestern city of Monticello).
As noted in her New York Times obituary, Ruth was "tiny in size but huge in love and kindness." She gave a start to many actors who later became highly successful and well-known in their careers, but she also was a huge a huge influence within the agency. Ruth taught us all the power of finding the right person for the right role, and the power of striving to be our best.
Al Kristensen
January 17, 2017
We greatly regret to report Al’s death, long-time B&B/DMB&B-er and a good friend to so many … organized, ever-dedicated, and always ready to help. http://www.rosehillfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Alan-Kristensen/#!/Obituary
Bern Kanner
2/1/29 – 1/13/17
With sadness, we read of Bern’s recent death, a gracious and good man who contributed much to B&B in his more than three decades at the agency. Details can be found in the following link:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/nytimes/obituary.aspx?n=bernard-kanner&pid=183603687&fhid=10591
Candy Greathouse
Kathy McSherry wrote:
TO ALL MY NEW YORK ADVERTISING FB FRIENDS:
It is with deepest sadness that I inform you that CANDACE GREATHOUSE died of complications of cancer on August 9, 2016. She was one of the most talented art directors I ever met, a brilliant and funny lady, and a fantastic, loving friend. I will miss her terribly. She is survived by her husband Wouter and her brother Jon.
Paulo Salles, a major force in Latin American advertising and a former leader of DMB&B, died suddenly in San Paolo, Brazil on May 11th 2016. He was 60. Paulo followed his father and uncle into the advertising business and built his family’s agency Salles, into one of the largest and most awarded agencies in Brazil. In 1982 Salles formed an affiliation with DMB&B, and in 1994 when DMB&B bought into the agency, it was renamed Salles DMB&B.
Paulo was highly respected in the halls of DMB&B, and he quickly took on regional responsibilities as head of DMB&B Latin America and global responsibilities as a member of the DMB&B Board of Directors. With the acquisition of BCom3 by Publicis in 2002, Paulo became Chairman of Publicis Worldwide for Latin America. He retired from the agency and the advertising business in 2008 and since then was involved in various investment activities.
Arthur Selkowitz, our Chairman of DMB&B, was a close colleague and fellow Board member with Paulo, and he spoke for all who worked with Paulo in saying: “Paulo was one of the most optimistic and charismatic people in our agency. He never, ever, was negative and always believed there was a solution to any problem or issue, and he usually came up with it. He infused that optimistic spirit at his own agency and throughout the DMB&B network and always, always had the best interests of the agency at heart.”
Carlton "Butch" Foust, 1/16/43 – 3/17/16.
From his son Wolf: Date: 3/28/16
Subject: Goodbye Butch Foust
Dear friends, As many of you know, my father, Butch has been battling cancer for the last two and a half years. Unfortunately, he passed last week. According to his wishes we are not having a memorial service so please say good bye in your own way and remember him as you will. My mother is doing well and I am with her in their home in Apalach. If you need to get in touch with us you can call us at home or email me using this address: wolfgang.foust@gmail.com Thank you to all those of you who helped Butch in this long battle and thank you all for being his friend.
Read Jackson passed away during afternoon of January 25, 2016. I’m sure speak for all of us in saying we lost a special friend and part of a most unique “family” in our early professional lives shared together some 40+ years ago. I confess to being a better person today as a result of the friendship with “HRJ”! I shall miss him dearly. Join me in a silent tribute to our friend … travel safe, H. Read Jackson; may you forever rest in peace! — Gary Langstaff
Brad Gustin
I learned recently that Brad Gustin passed away at age 62 from natural causes at his home in Allenhurst, NJ on July 27, 2013. Brad worked in account management in the Gillette group, with Tom Griffin and Mark Earle. —Tom Cook
Leslie J. (for Jazz) Stark, the most positive and passionate person I know passed away on July 17, 2015 on his beloved Martha’s Vineyard. He was 76 and the cause was cancer. His obit in the Vineyard Gazette called him the “Island’s Beloved Renaissance Man”…an advertising man, actor, playwright, proofreader, raconteur extraordinaire and beacon of hope for those with cancer. Some of those “professions” came in his retirement, but he hinted at them while he was still an ad man. He leaves a very large space in each of those worlds, as many folks pointed out at his funeral service. Speakers told how he even made the effort to “produce” his death by getting in touch with friends from college, work, and family, and saying goodbye ... sharing his kindness right to the end and providing closure to all. Never giving up, he recently wanted to learn to play the viola but couldn’t, so he took up the ukulele. He may have done that just to leave us with a smile or a laugh on his behalf. I will miss him.
Letters of condolence may be sent to: Myra Stark, P.O. Box 45, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568. Donations in his memory should be sent to the Martha's Vineyard Cancer Support Group, P.O. Box 2214, Vineyard Haven, MA, 02568
Gail Zeltman Ravetz
Karen Spector Piotti 63, of Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey, died on Monday, September 1, 2014. Karen began her career as a television producer at Scali McCabe Sloves. She spent more than a decade at Benton & Bowles in New York, and later at DMB&B, as an Executive Producer on national brands including Bounce, Yuban, Maxwell House and Corning. From Charlotte Rosenblatt, Director of Broadcast Production at DMB&B: Karen was one of our most talented and sought after producers. She approached everything she did with passion and creativity and left her unique and indelible imprint on every assignment she was given. I have many memories of Karen lobbying for certain jobs, but ultimately she worked on just about everything and once she accepted an assignment, it became "Gone With the Wind." She will be sorely missed. For anyone else wishing to share memories or condolences, please go to these sites: LinkedIn: DMB&B Alumni Facebook: Benton & Bowles Alumni
Tom Hendee
June 8, 1928 – August 12, 2014
From his obituary in the 8/20/2014 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
A well known audio producer of radio and television commercials for Benton & Bowles passed away of natural causes on August 12, 2014, in Manhattan at the age of 86. Tom was born in Milwaukee on June 8, 1928. He served in the Army Reserves before attending Williams College and then coming to New York in 1948 to start his career in advertising. His survivors include his nephew, Richardson Hendee (Elizabeth) and their daughters, Holly and Brooke; his nieces Virginia Hendee (Joseph Huetz) and their daughter, Jennifer Serruto; Carolyn Hendee (Carleton Nadelhoffer) and their daughters, Rose, Lila and Teka; and his long-time partner of 35 years and good friend of the last 12, Joseph R. Messina. Mr. Hendee was preceded in death by his dear friend, Ethel Merman. Tom was a fun loving man who always made us laugh. He enjoyed life and being surrounded by good friends and family. He will be greatly missed by all.
David Kreinik
May 14, 1930 - July 3, 2014
http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=David-Kreinik&lc=9785&pid=171617802&uuid=84bbec36-1aca-456a-8fd6-d13b4d5d6eda&locale=en_US
Consummate adman and devoted husband and father, David Kreinik, 84 who is best remembered for his quick wit and eternal sense of humor as well as his deep and abiding love for his family, his friends, and all things New York, died Thursday, July 3rd, in New Orleans, LA. He is survived by his wife, Sandra, and daughter, Sasha.
Interment will be held Friday, July 25th, 2014 at 1:00 pm at Lake Lawn Park Cemetery, 5454 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, La. 70124. Following, family and friends are invited to gather with his widow and daughter at 3738 Octavia Street, New Orleans, La. 70125. Please visit and sign the family guestbook at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.
Sasha will hold a brief and informal gathering to raise a glass to her father at his favorite restaurant in New York on Monday, August 4th. If you can attend, please contact her directly for details either by phone or via email. (504) 784-0310 or susanna.torrey@gmail.com
Matt Savage, a brief tribute written by his friend Jack Bloom:
My friend Matt died March 30, 2014. Matt Savage was not just my friend, but was also my writing partner at DMB&B during the Crystal Light days back in the mid 1980’s.
To say he’s not around anymore seems to defy logic, because he was a guy that I just liked being around. He was funny, smart, and probably the best looking guy I ever had the pleasure of pal-ing around with (he called me “pal”, which he genuinely meant). I realize that now – so many years later – I find I often say: “as my friend Matt used to say….”, so here, to remember him, are a few Mattisms:
He called Rosh Hashanah “Rush On Home-a.”
When invited to my daughter’s bat mitzvah, he wanted to know if he should wear a menorah on his head.
When his feet hurt, he said “my dogs are barking.”
If he saw someone pulling at the rear of their pants, he would ask them if they were going to the game, because “I see you were picking out your seat” (yes, I saw him do this many times).
And my all time favorite…at a difficult client meeting, we were having trouble with a scene in a TV production. Everyone was being a naysayer, but Matt said: “Don’t tell me what you can’t do, SHOW me what you CAN do.” Everyone’s jaw dropped, and we solved the problem.
More than just turning a phrase, Matt was a good human being…and I will miss him.
Yes, my friend Matt passed away, but my memories – clearly – will not.
Jack Bloom
April 2014
Si Merrill passed away on December 9, 2013. He was 94 years old. In 1945, while in the U.S. Army, he was personal photographer to Chiang Kai-shek, former President of the Republic of China. Following service to his country, he enjoyed a long professional career in advertising during which he received six CLIO awards. He will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband to wife Meg, father to son Michael, as well as grandfather to Chloe and Olivia. Funeral arrangements were private.
Jim Fuller died November 2, 2013. He leaves his beloved wife and son, Barbara Fauntleroy Fuller and Ben Fuller, along with many friends and colleagues who now mourn him. Barbara told us that Jim left this earth peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with Parkinson’s. Jim had suffered much with the debilitating aspects of the disease for a very long time, yet he and the family faced it together. Barbara was grateful that she and Bill (a medical student here in the NY area) were able to be with him throughout his final days. Anyone wishing to contact the family may reach Barbara at evpbarbff@gmail.com and donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s, www.michaeljfox.org.
Alan Clark died on July 18, 2013. He lived in Ancram, NY (originally of London, England, then Manhattan, and since 1976, his beloved Columbia County), ex-husband and forever best friend of Agi Clark; loving and loved father of Oren and of grandchildren Aidan and Thalia. Alan was killed before his time on July 18th in a devastating car accident. He is going to be terribly missed also by his brother David Clark and his family and so many friends who loved and admired him for his warm, generous heart, for his gentleness and wonderful sense of humor, and for his talents at anything he chose to do. Alan loved life, traveled the world, rode his bikes and motorcycle all around Columbia County, was a lifelong Tour de France and Formula 1 fan, and loved his (and everyone else’s) dogs and cats. Those who wish can make a donation in his name to the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA, Hudson, NY and/or Animalkind, Hudson, NY
Bill Perkins died in New York on January 21, 2013. He was 59. Bill touched so many lives with his brilliance, charisma, humor, mistakes and vulnerability over the years. He had an innate talent for the advertising business: sharp insights, warmth and a zany sense of humor that endeared him to all of us … that head of often unruly curls, his shy smile that could quickly break into a radiant grin, his ability to inspire great work and say the right thing to diffuse tension ... our memories of him are indelible. He was truly one of a kind and will be much missed. Those wishing to send condolences may do so to his brother Eddie, via Steve Davis, at jstevedavis@comcast.net.
Marion Lennox, B&B’s long-time Broadcast Traffic Manager, passed away on September 28, 2012. All of us who worked with her remember her fondly, and Rich Hamilton paid her this tribute:
"She headed up a thankless job. But a job, ironically, where a single mistake could cost you the account. A job where perfection was presumed. She was tough but her people loved her -- perhaps because she was tough. She supported and advocated for her staff wherever it was fair and right. She made many a sacrifice for them. She was loyal, and she believed in loyalty. At what she did, she was the best. I miss her … and am saddened to hear of her death."
And, if you’d like to leave a remembrance about her or words of sympathy, you can do so at the following link: http://obituaries.nydailynews.com/19792464
Pat Harvey Sullivan, a well-loved Account Executive at B&B during the 1970’s and early ‘80’s, died at her home in Larchmont NY on July 30, 2012. She succumbed to cancer, which she had battled, with optimism, strength and dignity, for the better part of 26 years. Everyone who knew Pat appreciated her intelligence, confidence and positive outlook, as well as her ability to find humor in even the most frustrating work situations. She contributed significantly to every project and always put things into the proper perspective. These were rare gifts in the midst of stress-filled deadline pressures and endeared her to everyone.
Pat Harvey Sullivan, a left advertising to start a family, and after her sons Conor and Griffin were born, Pat returned to school to become a librarian. She became a part-time librarian in a number of towns in Westchester County for almost twenty years. Her leisure time was spent playing with the Winged Foot niners, participating in Larchmont book groups, singing in the Sts. John & Paul choir, and was a dedicated bridge player throughout her life. She was also a published author, of a World Book title, Raccoons and Their Relatives.
Pat was cherished and is mourned by all of us who knew her, and who worked with her. She is survived by her husband Dermod, sons Conor and Griffin, and other close family members include fellow B&Ber Bill Sullivan, her brother-in-law. http://larchmont.dailyvoice.com/obituaries/patricia-sullivan-67-librarian-larchmont
Lee Rich left us at age 93 on May 30, 2012, a B&B-er during the '50's and '60's who worked with our clients like P&G to sponsor shows. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/31/arts/television/lee-rich-a-founder-of-lorimar-productions-dies.html?_r=1&ref=obituaries
Joan Utall Anderson died in her home in New York on APRIL 19, 2012 after a brief illness, she was 89. http://chronicle.northcoastnow.com/2012/05/02/former-elyrian-joan-anderson-dies-after-a-long-career-as-actress-jazz-aficionado/ During part of her long career, she was a casting director at B&B for both our commercials and soap operas. There will be a memorial service for her in September so anyone wanting information to attend should contact her son Bro, at brouttal@gmail.com.
Joan Eckstein died April 21, 2012 after a long illness that sapped her of her physical and mental strength. Let's remember the smart, sassy and beautiful woman she was before the illness. The family will be arranging an event in NYC in June to remember her; for information contact contact Susan Fehlinger at susan@susanfehlinger.com.
Henry Gross passed away at Christmas-time, 2011
We note with sadness the November 2011 death of Dick Gershon, an industry pioneer and media director of B&B back in the 60's. He left the agency in 1966 to found Independent Media Services, first media planning and buying company in the U.S. Ad Age heralded Gershon for this milestone in their review of the last 75 years of advertising history. There is a longer discussion of his career at: http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/164972/obit-independent-media-services-pioneer-dick-gers.html and anyone wishing to get in touch with the family may contact: Leslie Fenn Gershon (his wife in NYC) lesliefg1@gmail.com 212-799-1325 OR John Gates (his nephew) 22 Hazeltine Drive Cumberland, ME 04021 john.gates07@gmail.com 207-829-8099
Another sad loss to the B&B Alumni family:
Stephen Dennis Kolker
On Friday, October 21, 2011 — Stephen Dennis Kolker of New York, NY formerly of Washington, DC. Beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Kolker; dear brother of Gary (Nancy) Kolker, Jeffrey (Pamela) Kolker, and Tracy Kolker (Bruce Ochsman); greatly loved uncle of Samantha (Shaun), Courtney, Kelly, Paris, Kate, January, Jade, Tommy, Chase, Steven, and Lion.
Steve was a graduate of the Maret School where he served as President of the Student Government, and captain of the football team. He received his BA degree at Northwestern University in Chicago, and his masters degree at The Medill School of Journalism. He then joined Benton and Bowles as their youngest vice president. In his career, he was responsible for the marketing campaigns for such products as The Cabbage Patch Dolls and G.I. Joe.
Sad News about Joe Gregorace, 4-13-2011
We thought you would like to know that Joe Gregorace passed away on Wednesday, April 13, after a long illness.
Those of us who remember him — and who doesn't and couldn't — remember him as very colorful, a little cranky, very talented, and unsuccessful in hiding a very sweet man. His wife Maryanne asked that people remember him in their prayers.
The Gregorace home address is 83 Eagle Lane, Hauppauge, NY 11788. Their sons are Christian and Joe. The home phone is 631-360-1412 and they can be reached via email at greggo83@aol.com
Anyone wishing to make a donation in Joe’s name, please send it to Good Shepherd Hospice, 245 Old Country Road, Melville, NY 11747 (631-465-6300). Be sure to mention that the donation is in his name.
Eddie Stephens, who ran the DMB&B Mars Europe business for many years
From: Claude Keith, and Arty Selkowitz
Dear All,
It is with much sadness and a heavy heart that I write to inform you of the death of Eddie Stephens on Friday December 3rd, 2010 following a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.
Like a truly great single malt whisky, Eddie, I know, was an acquired taste. For those of us privileged to be considered his friends or close working associates he will be remembered for his brilliant mind, his great wit, and his extraordinary ability to entertain and hold the floor as a quite remarkable raconteur. Often a thorn in the side of management Eddie was a total one-off, an independent spirit, very much his own one man show, who worked superbly with a close knit team where he was very much in charge. No client could fail to be impressed by his dedication to their business, his extraordinary commitment and fierce loyalty as well as his superb presentation skills. He never failed to mark off the top man or woman and became to them the one ad person they could truly trust. He was really the consummate Account Man and I, for one, was proud to have seen him in action and to learn a great deal from him.
Since his retirement, which for him was to be all too short, he dedicated his time to his grandchildren and put all his energies into their development. An intensely private man he was one of the truly great characters of which there are all too few. His rapier wit, his wicked sense of humour and his sometimes outlandish behaviour will long be remembered and recounted. I only wish he had written a book of his stories and escapades. Eddie leaves a wife Billie, a son, Mark and a daughter, Emma, and, of course, his beloved grandchildren. The very private funeral will be on Friday but it is hoped that there will be a memorial service in the New Year. Should you wish to write to Billie her address is 13, Rusholme Road, London SW15 3JX.
Yours with love and or kindest regards,
Claude
Tony Douglas, the co-managing director of DMB&B London died October 12, 2010 at the age of 67 after a long battle with cancer. Tony and his partner, Graham Hinton were managing directors of the agency from 1985 until about 1995 and did such a good job that the DMB&B London was Agency of the Year in London in the early 90's.
Steve Fenton left us on August 12, 2010, at age 64. He battled pancreatic cancer with fervor for longer than seemed possible. So many in our B&B/DMB&B world were blessed to have known him and worked with him. He was our mentor, confidante, and loyal friend. Steve supported all of us and we should not have had to lose him so soon.
Dorothy Curtis, December 2009
“Dorothy Curtis … was our chief proofreader for many years, and saved us from quite a few print and broadcast errors. Truly a fine lady. … Certainly, she will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.” -- Tom (Howard) Thompson B&B 1956-85
Ted Burnett
We are very sorry to report that we recently learned of the death of Ted Burnett
(date and cause not known)
I am very sorry to be the bearer of bad news (again, after Mike Moore) but we lost
George Simko Wednesday night (12/30/09) after a long bout with cancer. Within a few short months we have lost two legends of media. George was a street-smart, wise, and joyous man with a wonderful sense of humor, a big smile and a raucous laugh. He loved jokes and he loved people, and was always available for counsel and support. For those of us who worked for him or with him, he was always someone who listened well and backed you up and had a bias for action that was refreshing. -- Arty Selkowitz
Our wonderful and brilliant Mike Moore, died on October 18, 2009. He was the beloved husband of Karen, loving father of David and Jeffrey, cherished grandfather. Mike Moore, former Media Director of Benton & Bowles and later the media leader of D'Arcy, Televest, and MediaVest, passed away on October 18th in New York after a two year battle with eosphageal cancer.
Mike was also the first Media Director to sit on the Board of Directors of a major advertising agency as Benton & Bowles, always a media innovator and power house, realized he had much to offer in the the broader sense of running an agency.
Mike was a good and gentle man. He cared deeply about the welfare of his people and always sought recognition, not for himself, but for his people in media and the media profession overall. He came of age when the media departments of agencies were considered an ancillary function and through his leadership and creativity he brought media to the forefront of agency thinking and contribution. Indeed, because of his innovation in developing the AOR function and recognizing the power of independent media thinking and leadership, he was a pioneer in developing, through Televest, the concept of stand-alone media operations which is so prevalent today.
Mike was quiet and low-key, but he was passionate in behalf of his clients who came to respect and love him for his insights, intelligence, and fair play. He was respected and heeded by the most important names in client-land---Coca Cola, Procter & Gamble, Kraft, General Motors, etc.
No one cared more for the agency and its people than Mike, and the results of his mentorship are reflected in the leadership of most of the major media operations in the country today. He was a wise and considerate man who will be missed by all whom he taught and touched.
-- Arty Selkowitz
Hello Arty,
Thank you for putting George into my thoughts. In his role as Euro President of D'Arcy, I saw a lot of him and worked alongside him on countless occasions, but … I think that for me the defining image of this feisty little man occurs in a Parisian restaurant on the evening of Jean Jabes' funeral. The Euro management team was devastated by the loss of our greatly loved regional leader, and perhaps sensing this, George invited us to join him for dinner that night where he held court for hours cheering us and entertaining us with a non-stop stream of anecdotes and humour....a kind of one-man vaudeville act that worked like a well-needed tonic on all of us. Brilliant leadership.
I join you in thinking of this 'street-smart, wise, and joyous man' and in hoping that the coming decade fulfils the hopes of us all. -- Richard Barker
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of Shelly Platt on June 3, 2009. Shelly is survived by his wife Sue and his daughters Eden, Karen and Deborah, and his grandchildren Nathaniel, Jacob and Rebecca. Shelly was twice a producer at Benton and Bowles, and it was during his later stint that most of us remember him. Shelly was, in an agency of colorful, talented characters, one-of-a kind. He was a mentor to a generation of young producers. A bear to a generation of TV directors and producers. And a wonderful friend to a great number of fellow B&B-ers who will sorely miss his genuine, good-hearted, warm friendship, wrapped in a fake curmudgeonly style.
It is with great sadness that we report the death from heart failure of Anne A. Watson, a long-time B&B-er in September 2008.She so enjoyed working at the agency, and treasured her many friendships from there over the years. Those who wish to get in touch with her family can contact Joyce LaRosa.
We mourn the loss of our colleague and friend, Boris Esterkis who died in July 2008.
It
is with great sadness that we report the death of Mark Abrams, on April
2, 2008 at Hudson Valley Hospital. He was 58. He is
survived by his wife Nancy and their triplet children Kirstin, Kimberly
and Keith. Further info can be found here: www.nyjnews.com/obits/Obit1.php?pid=2487468
Lois Burke, Research Librarian – January 12, 2008, of cancer
Jim Carroll, Director of Production – November 12, 2006, after a long illness
Louie Musachio, Art Director – December 10, 2007
of complications from heart bypass surgery
Stam Nishimura, Director of Post Production – December, 2007, while on a cruise
Jim Phox