Tom Arbuckle, former General Manager of the Toy Building has passed away
I received a call from Mike Berke of USA Toy Reps this weekend informing me that Tom Arbuckle, former General Manager of the Toy Building has passed away. It was noteworthy to me that Mike felt compelled to let me know so that I could put the word out. Tom Arbuckle was an important part of Mike's life as well as that of countless other sales reps and manfufacturers. The former Toy Buildings on 200 Fifth Avneue and 1147 Broadway hold a special place in the hearts and memories of those who made the annual Toy Fair pilgramage to New York. The buildings are now gone as is Mr. Arbuckle as well.
Tom Arbuckle obvisously knew that the Toy Building was far more than just a place of business. Here is what he had to say in a 2003 New York Times article:"'You have to have a complete understanding of the industry and you have to know that you can't put some product lines next to each other.''
Tom Arbuckle is no longer with us but many of you may have stories about him and the building he so ably managed. Let us hear them by giving us your comments.
Arline Wall commented:
To those of us who worked in the Toy Building year 'round - with the absence of Toy Fair's hustle and bustle - Tom was a welcome presence. He always had a ready smile, a kind word, and genuine interest in everyone and everything. Those were the days and I'm honored to have shared them with Tom. My sincere condolences to his family; may you find peace in the knowledge that Tom made a difference in the lives of many.
Tony Furman commented:
Thomas was one of a kind.........an astute businessman and at the same time a gentle soul who had an understanding for others problems......he always had time to listen and where he could, help. His love of the ITC and helping maintain its stature in a most difficult line of business; to keep all he dealt with happy in their individual situations was not an easy task......he did it. For most of the years he managed this collosal building devoted to the worldwide toy industry - surpassing the famous Jacob Javits Center for Toy Fair in NYC in its heyday - was a task in itself. There were few, if any in the toy business that did not respect and really like Tom........an unusual situation for a "landlord"..........he will be missed by more than those just in the toy business, but by many others that had occasion to work and play with him...........one of a kind!! Safe journey Tom.
