Sol Schultz, who worked at All Tile for nearly four decades—his entire career in the flooring industry—passed away Feb. 22 from progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a brain disease. He was 71.
“Sol was an integral part of All Tile for nearly 40 years,” said Bob Weiss, CEO and president of the distributor. “His quick wit was legendary, and his influence on colleagues, friends and family is still inescapable. Though he retired from the business almost 10 years ago, his maxims and principles live on today.”
Weiss added that Schultz will always be remembered as a great leader who knew how to combine a serious focus and fabulous sense of humor to leave an indelible print on anyone who met him. “He was cherished by many friends and family and will be dearly missed.”
Schultz, who served his country for six years in the Army Reserve and received the National Defense Service Medal, began his career in 1963 as an outside sales representative. As the scope of his responsibilities grew, his tireless sales drive and business acumen helped propel All Tile from a small, local distributor into a regional force in the market. He understood and influenced every facet of the operation, inside and out.
Schultz enjoyed fame among All Tile’s suppliers and clients as well as among countless distributors across the county. He retired from his position of vice president of sales in 2002.
“This was the greatest person I ever knew,” said his son, Scott. “He was a business leader and innovator. A Chicago native from Roger’s Park, my father was loved and respected by many. He was a person of the highest integrity and ethics. Dad was an amazing father, a loyal husband, loving grand- father and reliable friend to many. His presence brightened the lives of everyone who knew him. He made this world a better place for all.”
Schultz is survived by his wife of 43 years, Barbara; two sons, Marc and Scott and their respective wives; five grand- children and two sisters.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to curepsp.org, an organization established to find a cure for the disease Schultz battled with dignity.