A Tribute to Lillian Rothberg

 

The extraordinary woman behind an extraordinary family.

Anyone who ever met Lillian Rosenstock Rothberg knew she was a woman ahead of her time — a woman who brilliantly balanced the demands of her career and family.

Lillian’s long, full and remarkable life ended quietly at home with her children by her side on November 27, 2016. She was 91 years old. Her passing was greeted with admiration for her devotion to the family she loved and the company she helped build.​​​​​​​

Together, Lillian and her late husband, Dr. Henry M. Rothberg, co-founded LATICRETE in 1956. She and her husband worked lovingly and tirelessly to create something special, a company built in their likeness. Over the years, their dedication and commitment have shaped LATICRETE into the family-run and family-oriented business it is today.

STARTING UP A BUSINESS AND A FAMILY

From the very beginning, Lillian played a key role in running the business—and a household. While overseeing the office and administrative functions in support of her husband’s efforts to champion superior tile and stone adhesives, she also maintained a home.

As the business grew, so did the family. While Henry preached the values of the product abroad, Lillian protected their family values at home— ensuring the successful upbringing of their seven children.​​​​​​​

“From the very beginning, my mother and father shaped the values of our family and our company. I, and the entire LATICRETE family, will be forever in their debt for making the world and our industry a better place.” –David Rothberg, Chairman of the Board, LATICRETE

A LEGACY THAT WILL LAST FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

Outside of her professional life, Lillian was known for her superb insights into human nature, passionate concern for sociopolitical justice and love of literature.

Lillian’s devotion to mentorship and education led her and her late husband to contribute 20 scholarships to Dr. Henry M. Rothberg’s alma mater, the University of South Carolina’s School of Chemical Engineering.

Lillian and her husband took special pleasure in inspiring and mentoring the young members of their family. Now, their spirit lives on through their children and grandchildren.

Some are out in the world accomplishing great things while others continue to build the LATICRETE family business they began over 65 years ago.