CHICAGO—Franklin Horwich, the national sales manager for General Felt Industries (GFI) from the late 1940s until the late 1960s, passed away on March 3. He was 87.

During his time with GFI, Horwich amassed total sales of more than $100 million in felt padding, sponge cushion, vinyl runners and indoor and outdoor carpet. His sales force of over 30 covered the U.S. and Franklin personally handled Sears Roebuck and Mongomery Ward.

He also covered major floor covering accounts in the Chicago area including Pedian Rug, Goldblatts, Marshall Field, Wieboldts, John M. Smyth, Polk Bros., Carson Pirie Scott and the Fair Store.

Horwich was a sought-after motivational speaker in the industry, frequently traveling to other cities to speak at floor covering events as well as at Chicago Floorcovering Association (CFA) meetings. He was a fixture at the national markets and on a first name basis with floor covering dealers throughout the U.S.

“He was one of the true Deans of the industry,” said CFA executive director Cecil Treadway. “His motto was, ‘People buy people first and products second.’ He continued as a CFA member throughout the years as the president of Franklin Associates working with a sales force in the Chicago area. He will be missed by his many friends.”

Horwich’s survivors include his wife, Frances; two daughters, Marjorie Kulp and Carol Luber, and grandchildren, Pamela, Dana, Joanna, Aaron and Benjamin. He also leaves behind his sister, Loretta. In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorials be made to the Jewish United Fund.