“We are unbelievably sad to report the passing of another decorative lighting icon, Harry Kallick today in his home city of Las Vegas,” said Ron Henderson of Varaluz. “Much like the lighting Las Vegas is known for, his impact and inspiration will continue to brighten so many of us for years to come. Services and a details for a June Lightovation celebration of his life will be forthcoming.”
Harry, who was chairman of Varaluz, passed away on April 15 at age 78. He and Ron worked together at Kalco, later went their separate ways [Ron left the company to explore opportunities in the commercial lighting sector and Harry sold Kalco to Simkar in 2000], and then teamed up again during the founding of Varaluz.
A lifelong entrepreneur, Harry was involved in the lighting industry for most of his life. His most prominent achievement was founding Kalco Lighting, Inc. in 1981 in Southern California alongside his late wife Marcy. Together, they built the manufacturing company – which at that time pioneered the coordination of lighting with accent furniture – and later moved the headquarters to Las Vegas.
An active member of the American Lighting Association (ALA) over the years, he was on the 1995 Membership Campaign Committee and was Chair of the 2001 ALA Annual Conference Committee. He was also a major supporter of launching the ALA BiNational Advertising and PR program and served on the Lighting Board of Governors for the Dallas Market Center for 10 years, including service as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Board for four years. Harry was inducted into the ALA’s Lighting Hall of Fame in 2012.
“Harry was certainly an industry icon, friend, and mentor to me and many people over the years,” said Wayne Falk of Kalco. “We are all grateful to have had him in our lives and will cherish the memories and experiences.”
“Having only worked with Harry in my time at Varaluz, his energy, knowledge, and passion for life and the lighting industry was a force to witness. He impacted so many people in the industry, his smile, reach, and influence will live on in our hearts and memories,” noted Kellee Hollenback.
Ed Sherman was a legend as well we go back to meeting h and Linda when in 1984 at Dallas when my parents opened concord lighting and worked with pacific lighting agency till 2006 they were are 1st reping agency we became very close to Ed and Linda over time and are very happy we met them both toll th I s day
Rest in Peace
Ed 🙏
Abby Milikowsky