Los Angeles—Paul Singer, founder of Paul Singer Floor Coverings, passed away Oct. 1 from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. He was 89.

Singer began his industry career during the 1950s and ultimately founded Paul Singer Floor Coverings in 1959. The company grew as a commercial and residential flooring operation for decades. In 1996, during a time of rapid industry consolidation, DuPont’s fiber division purchased the company as part of a national commercial flooring consolidation.

Respected and admired by all who knew him, Singer and his wife of 67 years, Eleanor, traveled the world. He was a wonderful father, and his children adored him, noted his son, Larry.

“Mr. Singer was one real class act,” said Paul Rich of Valley Stream, N.Y., who got to know Singer after he moved to Los Angeles in 1989. “He always had a smile and an encouraging word. He reminded me of my dad, who brought me into the world of contract flooring. They just don’t make them like that anymore. He was a real gentleman. He was a true giant in my industry and will be missed.”

Sharon Beard first met Singer when she relocated from New York in 1985 to join the Paul Singer Floor Coverings team. “Mr. Singer always made a point of saying hello to everyone in the office. Sales meetings with him were a kick. He would always make sure the rookies or younger ones in the group stayed out of trouble.”

Dean Roth, another former employee, said he felt very blessed to have met and worked for Singer. “His demeanor in working with his staff was hard to duplicate. Paul set the tone for how we were to deal with and service our customers. Our suppliers had the highest regard for him. He always had the time to visit with you and help you work through any issues, whether personal or work-related. He will be missed.”

Singer is survived by his wife, Eleanor; son, Larry; daughter, Jenny; four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in Singer’s memory to be made to: City of Hope, Division of Neurosciences, attn: Rick Leonard, 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017.