NEWS

Taubman praised for his contributions, 'authenticity'

JC Reindl
Detroit Free Press

Shopping center pioneer and philanthropist A. Alfred Taubman was praised and remembered on Saturday for his decades of contributions to civic causes, education and the arts.

A. Alfred Taubman in 1983

"Al Taubman changed the way America shops," Gov. Rick Snyder said in a statement. "

But his greatest legacy will be how he used his fortune to help people in Michigan and beyond ... he will be long remembered not just for his retail genius, but for the lives he touched through his kindness."

Former U.S. Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan remarked that it is rare to encounter an individual as generous as Taubman was.

"He was as authentic as he was outspoken," the retired senator said. "He never forgot where he came from, and I'll never forget him."

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan called Taubman a personal friend and a great friend to the city of Detroit. "His loss leaves a huge hole in our entire community. I'm going to miss him terribly."

Graham Beal, director of the Detroit Institute of Arts, said Taubman's contributions to the museum were many.

"Alfred was one of the DIA's most significant patrons in its entire history," Beal said.

University of Michigan President Mark Schlissel said the university lost a great friend and partner. Taubman's support for U-M during his life will be augmented by provisions that he made for the university in his will, the president said in a statement.

Taubman studied architecture at U-M before and after his service in World War II, and decades later received an honorary degree there in 1991. The university's College of Architecture and Urban Planning was renamed the A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning following a $30 million gift in 1999, and at least three additional campus buildings are named for him.

"He valued state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research and patient care, and he was always mindful of supporting the activities that take place inside the university and the buildings that bear his name," Schlissel wrote.

U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn, lauded Taubman as a great businessman and devoted philanthropist. She and her husband, the retired Congressman John Dingell, are praying for the Taubman family.

"His contributions made our communities stronger and more vibrant, our schools and universities more innovative and our research institutes more prepared to find cures for the most devastating diseases we face," Dingell said in her statement.

Taubman's death was announced Friday night by his son, Robert S. Taubman, who is chairman, president and CEO of Taubman Centers, the company that the elder Taubman founded in 1950.

"Tonight, after dinner in his home, a heart attack took him from us, ending what was a full, extraordinary life that touched so many people in so many wonderful ways around the world," Robert Taubman said in the announcement.

"One thing that will never be taken from us isAlfred Taubman'svision that will continue to guide and inspire us. Our family thanks you for all your kind thoughts and support through this very difficult time."

Words of praise

"Al Taubman changed the way America shops. But his greatest legacy will be how he used his fortune to help people in Michigan and beyond ... he will be long remembered not just for his retail genius, but for the lives he touched through his kindness."

Gov. Rick Snyder

"He should be remembered as a great human being. Totally unselfish. He had a special love for education, and he loved this city. Personally, I have lost one of my dearest and closest friends, and I am in deep sympathy with the Taubman family."

Judge Damon J. Keith

"He was as authentic as he was outspoken. He never forgot where he came from, and I'll never forget him."

Former U.S. Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan

"His loss leaves a huge hole in our entire community. I'm going to miss him terribly."

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan

"Alfred was one of the DIA's most significant patrons in its entire history."

Graham Beal, director of the Detroit Institute of Arts

"We have lost a dear friend and educational partner, one of the genuine leaders and best. ... His strong support of the University of Michigan during his life will be further augmented by the provisions he made in his will for the university's future."

University of Michigan President Mark Schlissel

"His contributions made our communities stronger and more vibrant, our schools and universities more innovative and our research institutes more prepared to find cures for the most devastating diseases we face."

U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Mich.

"Mr. Taubman's generosity has assured that many future generations of (Lawrence Tech) students and scholars will have access to outstanding educations and facilities, and we are forever grateful for his kindness, friendship and support."

Lawrence Technological University President Virinder Moudgil

"One thing that will never be taken from us is Alfred Taubman's vision that will continue to guide and inspire us. Our family thanks you for all your kind thoughts and support through this very difficult time."

Robert S. Taubman, son of A. Alfred Taubman and chairman, president and CEO of Taubman Centers, the company that the elder Taubman founded in 1950.