Joe Leflein of Thomas Furniture Passes at 94

Furniture World News Desk on 4/19/2016

Joe Leflein who founded Plainfield, New Jersey-based Thomas Furniture, NJ passed away at 94 at his home in Boca Raton, Florida.

Leflein served as an officer in the US Navy during WW2. After surviving five invasions, Leflein began his career in the late 1940s with a small store in Brooklyn. In 1950 he opened the Plainfield store named after his son Thomas Leflein, is now VP Sales at Nico Home.

He turned this small turned into one of the most successful design oriented high-end furniture stores in the state.

Leflein was ahead of his time. He ran Thomas Furniture for 50 years until his retirement. During his tenure, he earned the respect of his suppliers and was especially revered by the sales reps.

He was devoted to his business and employees, but his family and they always came first. Said Tommy Leflein, “He was my mentor and best friend and a real man’s man.” He had a passion for golf, was active in his synagogue and supported many charities.

Joe Leflein leaves behind his wife of 68 years Joan of 68 years, son Tommy daughter Patty Guttentag and four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

The family requests that donations be made to City of Hope.

Funeral services will be held on April 20th at Beth Israel Cemetery at in Woodbridge, NJ.