COMMERCE, Calif. — Nora Lighting co-founder Haghnazar Farahnik celebrated his 104th birthday in January at his home in Los Angeles, CA,with his family of six children, 17 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.
Farahnik, who was born in Iran, came to the U.S. in the 1980s when his native country was in political turmoil. He joined Nora Lighting CEO/President Fred Farzan and Executive Vice President Jilla Farzan in founding Nora Lighting in Los Angeles. Jilla Farzan is Farahnik’s daughter.
The company was launched in a small office on Fairfax Avenue in West Los Angeles with three employees. Today, Nora Lighting is a major manufacturer of lighting products for residential and commercial applications with corporate headquarters in Commerce, Calif.
Farahnik was a textile manufacturer and importer when living in Iran. At Nora Lighting, he helped set up the company’s sales network and assisted in daily plant operations. Even into his 90’s he continued to attend Nora sales and planning meetings.
“My father has always lived a very balanced, healthy lifestyle, actively involved with family, community and business,” says Jilla Farzan. “He has been a member of many philanthropic organizations in southern California and gave generously of his time,” she said.
His secrets to a long life may be his commitment to a healthy diet, outdoor activities, a sense of humor and good genes. Farzan says, “We can no longer put 100+ candles on his birthday cake…but he still loves a party.”
Nora Lighting Co-Founder Haghnazar Farahnik (seated center) attends a Nora national sales meeting in 2002. Daughter Jilla Farzan, Nora executive vice president, is behind him to right and Nora CEO and President Fred Farzan is to the right.
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