G. Alex Bernhardt, Sr. of Bernhardt Furniture Co., announced that Lewis G. Norman has elected to retire at the end of the year as Vice Chairman of the corporation. Bernhardt praised Norman and said he was very pleased that Norman would continue as a Director, shareholder, and as a consultant to the company. Norman has been with the company since 1965, serving longest as President of the Residential Division.
Bernhardt said “I will not even attempt to describe what Lewis has contributed to this company, this community, and to me personally throughout the 45 years he has been so closely and loyally committed to each. His skill and knowledge of his trade are surpassed only by his leadership ability, which is always tempered by his personal and compassionate touch with people. I can never thank him sufficiently for his total commitment and complete support, and therefore I am very pleased that he will continue to be closely associated with the company and with me. "
Bernhardt also noted that he and Norman had been the closest of personal friends for over 50 years since they were roommates in boarding school, attending the same college, serving in each other's weddings, attending the same church, and living in Lenoir as next-door neighbors.
Bernhardt Furniture Company is headquartered in Lenoir, N.C., was founded in 1889, and is still privately owned by the founding family. The company employs approximately 1,000 associates at its seven facilities in North Carolina and its five Asian offices. It offers fine furniture for the residential, contract and hospitality industries.