In Memoriam: Howard Hirsch Fishman, of SS Kemp

Howard Hirsch Fishman, 96, passed away Aug. 22 in Sarasota, Fla.

Howard and his sons, Mark and Steven, worked together to grow the dealer SS Kemp, which he acquired in 1978. “Howard was proud of the company and, even more so, of the opportunity to work alongside his sons and build something lasting for future generations,” states his obituary. TriMark acquired SS Kemp in 2007.

In addition, Howard was the president of FEDA from 1992-1994 as well as the founder of the equipment buying group IFED.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard, attaining the rank of Lieutenant, Junior Grade. He also was a longtime member of Temple Emanu El in Orange, Ohio.

Howard is survived by his children, Mark (Terri) Fishman, Cathy (Scott) Wallenstein and Steven (Jennifer) Fishman; his siblings, Norma Siegal (Dec) and Joseph Fishman (Dec); his grandchildren, Gillian (Austin Hood), Jocelyn Patterson, Adam (Jill) Wallenstein, Michael (Kate) Wallenstein, Charlie Fishman and Lillie Fishman; and his great-grandchildren, Casey, Penelope, Brooks, Mila and Callie Wallenstein.

“Howard was truly one of a kind,” states his obituary. “He was as honest and kind as they come. He will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his leadership and contributions to an industry he helped transform, his commitment to his community, and above all, his love and devotion to his family. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many people whose lives he touched.”

For more details on services (to be held Aug. 27), memorial donations and more, see the obituary here.