Obituary: Barry Herstein, R&D exec and package designer
By Staff -- Playthings, 10/2/2009 8:42:00 AM
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.—Barry Herstein, a research and development executive for toymakers such as Buddy L, Matchbox and Colorforms, died on October 1 from pulmonary hypertension at his home in Scottsdale, Ariz. He was 67.
Herstein made his name in the toy business at Buddy L, for whom he headed research and development until 1986.
In 1986 he partnered with Jack Schecterson to found Herstein-Schecterson, a company that handled product and package design, product merchandising and corporate identity programs for Goldberger Doll, Revlon, Remco Toys and National Housewares, among other clients.
He was vice president R&D at Colorform from 1989 to 1991, then went on to hold the equivalent post at Matchbox Toys (USA) from 1991 to 1993.
Independent toy inventor Richard C. Levy said, upon hearing of Herstein’s passing, “Barry has left footprints in my heart. I have lost a dear friend. On the professional side, his word was his bond in an era when words were sometimes given lightly. He was a man of honor, integrity and purpose in life.”
Herstein was born on Aug. 14, 1942 in Brooklyn, N.Y., one of three sons of Jessie and Clara Herstein. He graduated from Pratt University in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial design.
He is survived by wife Claire, sons Rob and Jamie, and twin granddaughters.
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