Howard Bernstein PHOTO: Liz Richards

Revered industry leader Howard N. Bernstein passed away last month aged 92.
Bernstein, founder and former chairman of the Atlas Companies, was laid to rest on May 22 after passing away at Evanston Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.

Bernstein, a long-time supporter of Forkliftaction.com, is remembered by peers for his love of the materials handling industry. He is particularly noted for his long and dedicated service to the industry associations, including the MHEDA where he was president in 1965.

Tributes to the industry stalwart noted his ongoing contribution.

"Howard was one of the greatest leaders and icons in this industry and an example of someone who truly gave of himself for the betterment of others. He never stopped sharing his gifts of experience and knowledge," says Liz Richards, executive vice president of MHEDA. "The past few years, Howard passionately worked to help raise the awareness of this industry among students through the establishment of the Howard Bernstein Industrial Distribution Scholarship, first by seeding the fund with USD150,000 and then tirelessly fund raising within the materials handling community, bringing in tens of thousands of dollars. His message was about the importance of 'investment' in young people. I was fortunate to have worked with Howard on this effort and have had the pleasure of Howard's friendship and mentorship for the past 20 years. The materials handling industry has lost a great man."

"It was a privilege and honour to know and work with Howard for these past 20 years at MHEDA. The industry has lost a great leader and a humble man. I have lost a personal friend and tremendous mentor," she writes on Legacy.com.

Other tributes included this comment from Hans Anger: "Howard was a kind and wonderful man, an honourable and ethical businessman and an Industry Leader ... a fine role model for all."

Jeff Long of Naperville, Illinois wrote: "Howard was an icon in our industry! His leadership will be missed. It was an honour to know Howard."

Bill Ryan of Charlotte, North Carolina noted that "the world and our industry has lost one of its greatest citizens. Thank you Howard, for all you gave us."

Bernstein is remembered as the beloved husband of Harriet; devoted father of Lisa (Harry) Millspaugh and Leslie (Richard) Sandler; loving stepfather of Bruce Harwood and Lauren (Larry) Kurzwell; cherished grandfather of Sarah (Chris) Micele, John Millspaugh, Dr. Victoria (Andy) Shlensky, Jeffrey Sandler, Alexander (Sara) Harwood-Karlik, Noah and Jacob Harwood, Matthew and Brian Kurzwell; proud great-grandfather of Evan Micele, Ethan Micele and Laney Shlensky; and dear brother of the late Cleo Hagenson. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Howard Bernstein Scholarship Fund or the Palm Springs Air Museum.

To read Forkliftaction.com's coverage of the launch of the scholarship program, click here.