A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, he was accompanied throughout his last days as well as his life, by his wife of 55 years, Debrah R. Plasman.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Gilbert J. and June Plasman; his sister, Susan Alderman, his brother, Thomas Plasman, and brothers-in-law Ed Noroian and Charles (Chip) Ridenour. He is survived by his son, C.J. Barrett Plasman (Kristen) and daughter, Torrance Zimmerman ( Justin), who provided loving support to their father Chris in his final days. Those who knew Chris enjoyed and appreciated his friendship and thoughtfulness. He was a sought-after advisor by his family and friends, and a dedicated grandfather, guide and counselor to those he dubbed “The Magnificent Seven”; his grandchildren, all of whom called him “Pard”. He will be deeply missed by all: Samuel, Sophia, William, and Charles Plasman; and Eleanor Reed, Elizabeth, and Emerson Zimmerman.

Chris also is survived by his sister, Jane Plasman, and four nieces.

Chris was both a thoughtful leader and a faithful follower and negotiated both paths with comfort. He could be counted on to lead in any setting – boardroom, playing field, church, at home in Greensboro, NC and during summers in Leland, MI. He was the kind of devoted friend who talked to his best friend, Bud Timmer, every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. EST no matter where his travels took him.

His optimism was unceasing, even in his final days, and he shared that outlook with all who knew him. Hope was more than just the name of his college: it was his hallmark. Chris was a talented raconteur and an avid listener. He could initiate a conversation with all he met, and that gift fed his unceasing effort to study and learn throughout life. He was a student and teacher, an avid reader who even read science books for enjoyment.

Chris’ career in home and office furniture was long and successful. After graduation from Hope College and five years as a Captain in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, he began his furniture career in product marketing with office furniture manufacturer Herman Miller Inc. While at Herman Miller he began his deep familiarity with the role of design and designers, a relationship which was enhanced throughout his career by his uncanny recognition of talent and beauty. He left Herman Miller to begin a series of successive presidencies of furniture makers, starting with Hickory Business Furniture. After working at HBF, he joined Baker Furniture as president, attracting designers including Michael Vanderbyl and Barbara Barry, both of whom created collections which elevated further the Baker reputation. Chris’ ability to attract talent led him to establish Bolier & Company, building a global furniture brand recognized in both residential and commercial settings. He also began Van Peursum, Ltd., again relying upon his ability to attract exceptional design talent. He also led Matsuoka Furniture as President, helping the Japanese manufacturer of luxury furnishings establish brand recognition in the United States.

It is no exaggeration to say that Chris’ career in fine furniture has influenced the choices of thousands of interior designers and homeowners throughout the world.

To the many who were fortunate to know Chris. please bid him a farewell with his favorite phrase: “It’s been fabulous.”

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 28, at 3 p.m. at Buffalo Presbyterian Church, 803 16th Street, Greensboro, North Carolina.