Fabritec2000 Co-founder Sam Chase Dies At 59

Furniture World Magazine

FabricTech2000 said that its co-founder Samuel L. Chase, 59, of Morris Plains died after suffering from cancer. Chase was a well-known executive in the mattress industry for more than 35 years, representing several major brands before co-founding the mattress and pillow protection business in 2001. Within the mattress industry, Chase was also known as a chronicler of change in mattress trends through his extensive collection of industry advertising memorabilia. "We were all blessed to be a part of Sam's inner circle and to share with him his dreams, vision and passion. He was a loving husband, father and brother to his family. As a business partner, his relentless energy was contagious and will be sorely missed," said Arnold Hershbain, vice president of FabricTech2000. Chase co-founded the company after many years of searching to find hypoallergenic mattress and pillow pads for his highly allergenic son. Unable to find viable solutions, he used his engineering background to design an appropriate product and receive patents on two. Soon after, National Allergy Supply in suburban Atlanta agreed to manufacture the innovative product line. Hershbain and other FabricTech2000 executives will assume Chase’s day-to-day responsibilities. Chase received many accolades throughout his career, including being awarded the honor of Dean of IHFRA (International Home Furnishings Representative Association); Salesman of the Year of IHFRA in NJ; and bestowed the highest award from the Metropolitan Home Furnishings Association of NJ, the Howard Liverwright Man of the Year Award Chase is survived by his wife, Riva, and his two children, Gary and Beverly.