Launchpad has just learned that we lost one of our industry’s greats, Rick Goldberg, today. His wealth of experience—co-developer of the Cost Cutters franchise, two-time Aveda Distributor of the Year, youngest president of BBSI (Beauty Barber Supply Institute), founder of TSA (The Salon Association), equity owner of American Crew, and founder of Brand Architects, a complete brand development resource—is mind-boggling. More important, Goldberg was one of the nicest guys on the planet. “He had a very hard time saying no,” says childhood friend Allan Share of the Day Spa Association. “He really had a big heart for digging down and helping, and conversely when Rick fell on his own hard times, a lot of people stepped up to the plate. He had a lot of people who loved him.” Goldberg paid Share a visit just last week, working what Share calls his Sammy Hagar look. “I always thought Rick looked a lot like Sammy Hagar, but I wasn’t the only one,” Share says. “One time we were at the airport in Las Vegas after some show when two young girls came running up to Rick, saying, ‘Sammy, can we have your autograph?’ Without missing a beat, Rick said, ‘Sorry girls, it was a late night’ and kept on movin’. That was pure Rick.” Goldberg leaves behind three sons, who meant the world to him. He will be missed.
[Image: Allan Share and Rick Goldberg at the Monte Carlo in Minneapolis]
