Alan David Sporn, the owner and president of Spornette International, passed away peacefully in late March with countless friends close by, as well as around the world.

Born in October 15, 1945, Sporn grew up on the south side of Chicago, attended Brandley University and earned his MBA at DePaul. He married Barbara in 1969, and they had four children. After briefly working in the banking industry, Sporn joined his father, Walter, at Spornette International in the early 1970s. In 1985, Sporn became the owner and president of the company, which flourished, becoming one of the top hairbrush companies in the professional beauty industry. In promoting his company, Sporn traveled to all of the seven continents and more than 50 countries.

Sporn cherished his family above all. There were phone calls each and every day to his children and grandchildren. There were Shabbat calls to his in-laws and family members from wherever he was around the world. His 48+ year marriage to Barbara Sporn was full of traveling the world and spending time with family and friends.

“To know Alan was to know that you were loved! My heart aches for the tremendous loss in my life and the entire beauty industry. He was the absolute most gracious, generous, kind and loving man,” says Brent Hardgrave, salon owner, extensions specialist and the founder of The Brent Brush. “Alan didn’t need a spotlight, he was the spotlight! He told me a long time ago, ‘If you create something new, I’ll make it!’ And he did. Together, we have helped so many children with special needs with the Brent Brush. It never started out to be that, but it became that and so much more. Alan believed in me and took me into his family. The most love I have ever witnessed is Alan around his family. When you dined with Alan, you never left hungry or sober! Cheers to you my sweet friend—I’ve already planted a magnolia in your honor!”

Sporn made friends wherever he went—in school, traveling and through work. He left a warm and loving impression on everyone he met, even if it was for just a brief meeting. He knew people in every city he visited and even knew the airlines that got you directly to that city. Sporn is known as a loyal friend, mentor and philanthropist.

Sporn was preceded in death by his wife Barbara. He is survived by his children Laurie (Arlyn Tratt), Bonnie (Benjy Fine), Gary (Sara Berkowitz), and Jeffrey; grandsons Brayden and Quinn Tratt, Teddy Fine and granddaughter Alice Fine.

The family is requesting any donations be the Leukemia Research Foundation at allbloodcancers.org/