Mark Tashman, left, joined by his son Kenny, founded Tashman Home Center on Santa Monica Boulevard in 1961. (photo courtesy of Kenny Tashman)

Many people are mourning Mark Tashman, founder of Tashman Home Center in West Hollywood, who died on Jan. 4 at the age of 87 at his home in Studio City.

Tashman was a well-known figure in the West Hollywood community for decades. Born in Poland, he immigrated to Israel with his family as a child, and later to the United States at the age of 21. Tashman opened the store – at the time called Tashman Screens & Hardware – in 1961. Over the years, it has grown and expanded, carrying a wide range of products including windows, doors, glass, screens, hardware, tools, plumbing supplies, cleaners and kitchen and bath fixtures. Mark’s son Kenny Tashman, who continues to operate the hardware store at 7769 Santa Monica Blvd., called his father “the definition of a true American success story.”

“He was a really hard worker. He loved America. He loved what the city gave to us,” Tashman said. “He was proud of this city, proud of his kids and proud of his life.”

Mark Tashman enjoyed traveling, visiting six continents and nearly all 50 states. He was an avid gardener who transformed his backyard with landscaping and fruit trees. Kenny Tashman said his father also loved helping people and enjoyed spending time with his family.

“He loved my mother, Janet, for 62 years of marriage. He had three amazing children and five incredible grandchildren. I was blessed to have him as my father, mentor, partner and friend. He taught me the importance of hard work, family, being Jewish and a proud American,” Tashman said. “He was a great dancer, expert traveler, master gardener and photographer. He made great salami and eggs too. He loved his business, Tashman Home Center, investing in multi-family properties, Israel, and debating politics. I am heartbroken that he is gone, but as he would say, ‘he squeezed the lemon fully,’ and he truly lived a ‘wonderful life.’”

Mark Tashman

Tashman is survived by his wife Janet; children Kenny and David Tashman and Raquel Rissman; grandchildren Alexandra, Sarah, Maura, Jacob and Aron; sisters Ayala and Ruth; sister-in-law Adrienne; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Tashman were held on Jan. 6 at Mount Sinai Memorial Park in Hollywood. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Jewish National Fund.