In Loving Memory

Robert "Bob" Fireman
1936–2015

As a young boy in the early 1940s, Bob sold fish supplies through ads in comic books. Graduating from CCNY with a BS in Physics and an MS from the Stevens Institute of Technology, Bob was recruited as a computer systems analyst during the dawn of computing in the 1960s. His colleagues described him as a brilliant mind.  

Bob opened up a craft store on the Upper West Side of Manhattan during the 1970s. His shop became a well-known source of functional and affordable art work.

A serial entrepreneur, Bob ventured into the futon business in 1980. Attempting to meet the demand of his customers, he sought out futon frames made from oak. He found a factory in Tennessee who could produce his futons, yet in a despairing way, almost everything they made broke apart.

In the quest for a higher quality product, Bob went on to hold several patents improving futon functionality and personally sourced factories in South America and Asia. By 1986, his store Futon Gallery was the largest futon store in New York City which branded him as a pioneer in the industry.

Continuing to design and produce futons for over a decade, he developed a strong and intimate relationship with the people of Indonesia. Bob discovered the beautiful handicrafts created by the local people, and in turn felt inspired to support their livelihoods and creativity by fabricating his designs with them.

Bob fell in love not only with the people, but also with the beautiful and unique hardwoods of Indonesia. His ingenuity, entrepreneurship, and hardworking personality led to his largest and most recent passion—what is known today as From the Source. Today, From the Source employs approximately 80 individuals in Central Java, providing job training, medical care, meals, and other benefits to ensure their welfare and the well-being of their families. 

Bob's legacy reaches far beyond Brooklyn. He will long be remembered as a leader, always charting new territories. He leaves behind his wife of 49 years; his daughter, son-in-law, two grandchildren; his brother; his wife's siblings and spouses; and beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins, in addition to his cherished friends from all over the world.

Hugs to one and all,
The team at From the Source 

A message from the Indonesian team

Our deep condolences. It is a very, very big loss for us. 

He was not only our boss, but he was also a father, teacher, and our best friend. He showed and taught us many things in life, and he was always there in times of need. We will miss every moment we spent together with him. He will always stay in our hearts, and we will always keep him in our prayers. We will continue moving forward with all the good things he had left to us.

May he rest in peace, and may God put him in a better place.

With much love,
PT. Liform Indonesia Team