Article Number : 1994 |
|
Article Detail |
|
 | |
| Date | 5/17/2007 8:55:27 AM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=1994 |
| Abstract | CHICAGO—Henry Schaye was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the late 1960s but never let it dampen his spirit or affect his career. He was even named the Chicago Floorcovering Association (CFA) “2006 Person of the Year” and was honored at the organization’s Presidential Dinner Dance in December... |
| Article | CHICAGO—Henry Schaye was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the late 1960s but never let it dampen his spirit or affect his career. He was even named the Chicago Floorcovering Association (CFA) “2006 Person of the Year” and was honored at the organization’s Presidential Dinner Dance in December. On March 3, the veteran flooring salesman passed away. He was 82. Schaye began his floor covering career as salesman for the 12th Street Store selling linoleum after being honorably discharged from the service. In the early 1960s he joined All Tile Distributors selling Bonny Maid products. In 1966 he joined Rexx Rug & Linoleum in Chicago as a partner. It was soon after taking the job that he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Living with new challenges, Schaye became a tireless fund raiser for the Joe Lessman chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. In 1975 he joined CFA, bringing about 50 new retail members with him and became a member of the association’s board. At the same time he began his self-taught introduction into the world of computers. In the early 1980s he became membership chairman and converted the records from index cards and zinc plates to bring CFA into the computer age. Schaye’s hobbies included crossword puzzles, opera and classical music. He was a regular attendee of the Romeo (Retired Older Men Eating Out) monthly luncheon and fellowship. “His multiple sclerosis was an internal problem to Henry, but outwardly he smiled with courage, never complaining,” said Cecil Treadway, CFA’s executive director. “He will be sorely missed by his many friends in the industry.” Schaye leaves behind Mata, his wife of 57 years; three sons, Barry, Fred and Neil, who are all married and in the family business; and grandchildren, Joshua, Stephanie, Benjamin, Jeremy, Anna, Clara and Etta. He was predeceased by his brother, Abraham “Nony” Schaye. The family asks memorials be sent to the Joe Lessman chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, c/o 3835 W. Jarlath, Lincolnwood, Ill. 60712. |