A quick smile, a big laugh and a kind heart: These attributes, according to family and friends, are what characterized Phyllis Hohenwald and are essential parts of the memories that will remain of the longtime promo products industry executive following her passing at age 87.

Hohenwald, an Odin, MN, native, died peacefully on March 23 surrounded by family. She was the former CEO/co-owner of Spartan Promotional Group (asi/331150), a distributorship based in Oakdale, MN. She and her husband, Arthur (Al), who passed at age 87 in 2020, founded Spartan in 1966.

Phyllis Hohenwald, Spartan Promotional Group

The couple were noted leaders in the promo industry. Al, who also went by Art and “Skeets,” served on the board of directors of industry trade group Promotional Products Association International, as well as the board for the Upper Midwest Association of Promotional Professionals (UMAPP). Both Phyllis and Al received UMAPP’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.

The Hohenwalds were successful in building their promo products business. These days, Spartan Promotional Group has some 80 independent sales representatives around the U.S., according to the company website. The firm continues to be owned by the Hohenwald family, with the couple’s sons at the helm.

Phyllis and Al were true entrepreneurs at heart. In addition to Spartan, they founded other successful businesses, including Como Park Concessions and Hohenwald Enterprises. Success in business didn’t cost Phyllis her warm human touch, though.

“I met Phyllis at the old Spartan office many years ago,” commented one woman on Phyllis’ online obituary. “I was applying for a job, and she welcomed me in with open arms and this huge smile. I have loved her ever since. I know without a doubt she will be missed. … Rest in peace, beautiful lady.”

Phyllis is survived by her children, Mark (Cori), Mike (Terri) and Paul (Diana); grandchildren, Michael, Nicole, Nick, Katie and Allen; and great-grandchildren, Andrew, Olivia, Declan, Jaxon and Norah.

A funeral service was held March 30. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to King of Kings Lutheran Church, American Cancer Society or donor’s choice.