Larry Zarsky, Entrepreneur
Larry Zarsky, an entrepreneur who left a definitive mark on the clothing and licensing industries, died in East Northport on March 31 at the age of 72. A resident of East Hampton for many years, he had been ill with mantle cell lymphoma for six weeks.
Mr. Zarsky, who was known as Larry Z, was part of the original sales and marketing team that brought Bic pens to this country in the 1960s. Next, setting his sights on the fashion industry, he was one of the first salesmen to represent Esprit de Corp., helping the clothing brand to expand its worldwide reach in the mid-1970s.
In later years, he formed Icon Partners, a celebrity branding and licensing firm. In 2004, Icon Partners signed Jessica Simpson, the actress and singer, and started a leading celebrity brand. The company also acquired the first and only celebrity license for Usher, the R&B singer and actor, later launching his line of fragrances. Other celebrity clients included Paula Abdul, Montel Williams, LL Cool J, Naomi Campbell, Carol Alt, Kanye West, and Ice T.
In his civic life, Mr. Zarsky was active in Wings Over Haiti, Meals on Wheels, the Edwin Gould Services for Children and Families, and the Pet Philanthropy Circle, among other organizations.
He enjoyed drumming and singing, and was a talented painter.
Mr. Zarsky was born on Dec. 8, 1941, in the Bronx to Harry Zarsky and the former Pearl Yanovich. While growing up, he split his time between the Bronx and Los Angeles.
In 1959, he served with the National Guard, based at Fort Ord, a former military post on Monterey Bay in California. Between 1965 and 1979, he lived in Miami.
He is survived by Patricia Walker Zarsky, his wife of 18 years. He is also survived by two daughters, Karie Zarksy Bennett of Sunnyvale, Calif., and Erica Zarsky Connors of Saratoga, Calif. He leaves two grandchildren and two siblings, Michael Zarsky and Ellen Weisman, both of Woodland Hills, Calif.
Mr. Zarsky loved beautiful, sunny days. A celebration of his life is planned for early summer, at a date to be determined. As he was fond of both the East and West Coasts, his ashes will be dispersed on the Atlantic as well as the Pacific Oceans.
His family has suggested memorial contributions to the Visiting Nurses of Suffolk County, 505 Main Street, Northport 11768.