The toy industry lost a legend this week. Michael Kohner was a dear friend to many, a passionate advocate for inventors, a steadfast supporter of People of Play, and a familiar face at Toy Fair for more than 60 years. He never missed reading the Bloom Report, mentored countless people throughout the industry, and helped bring joy to generations through games including LOOPIN' LOUIE, MR. BUCKET, GIGGLE WIGGLE, DON’T PANIC, PENCIL NOSE, and MAGIC TOOTH FAIRY.

Michael came from a family of toy industry pioneers. His father, Paul, and uncle, Frank, helped shape the industry, and the Kohner family was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 TAGIE Awards.

This is a page where friends and colleagues can share memories and celebrate Michael’s remarkable life, legacy, and contributions to the world of play. If you have memory to share, let us know. 

Celebrating Play and Those Who Make It Possible,

Mary

Tributes in Memory of Michael

The toy and game world has lost one of its most treasured figures, and I have lost a dear friend.

Michael Kohner's legacy stretched from his family's founding of Kohner Bros..."., through iconic products like Trouble and the Busy Box, to his own remarkable run with the Michael Kohner Corporation. 

He was a gentleman in every sense, patient, fair, and ethical to his core. His word was his bond, and in a business built on relationships, he set the standard for how those relationships should be conducted.

The proof was in the longevity. Michael built decades-long partnerships with inventors and toy companies around the world. Perhaps nothing illustrated this better than his close collaboration with Longshore, which he helped grow into one of the most prominent toy and game manufacturers in the world.

Relationships like these do not endure for decades accidentally. Everyone who worked with Michael knew they were dealing with someone who not only had deep relationships throughout the industry, but who operated with the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and work ethic.

His generosity was legendary. For decades, during toy events such as ChiTag and NY Toy Fair, he hosted unforgettable dinners at the finest steakhouses and delighted in taking friends and colleagues to Broadway shows.  No evening with Michael was complete without his humor, the perfectly timed one-liner, and the pure Catskills comic energy that left the whole room laughing. 

When he wasn’t holding court at a dinner table or closing a deal, you could often find him on a golf course, another arena where his competitive spirit, patience, and good humor were fully on display.

That spirit of joy and adventure never left him. In 2017, a small group of us were guests of Adi Golad in Israel. Michael rode a camel, blue cap on, both hands flashing a victory sign, grinning from ear to ear. It was pure Michael: game for anything, finding the fun in every moment, and making everyone around him smile simply by being himself.

He will be deeply missed.

- Bob Fuhrer, Nextoy

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I was in the toy business for most of my adult life. About 50 years ago I met a man by chance who changed my life forever. He was royalty in the toy industry.  His name was Michael Kohner. I was building my own toy company,  Broadway Toys, alone and needed professional help.

His great family toy business Kohner Brothers was sold to General Foods in 1969 and Mike was looking for a change. He was a toy business veteran and i was a rookie. Very fortunately , he answered my search for help.

We had our very first meeting in a car in a New Jersey Kmart parking lot. After 30 minutes we shook hands and lucky me I acquired a professional expert to help me navigate the challenging toy industry.

In the last few days I have read many beautiful tributes that were sent to the Kohner family. Every single one of them said that Michael Kohner was one in a million. Everyone included accolades to his knowledge, his kindness, his humor, his trust, his friendship.

 For many years Mike and I traveled together back and forth from Hong Kong around 40 times. He had his growing international game business meetings (Michael Kohner Corporation) and I focused on my Broadway Toys business with mostly American retailers , package designers, sales reps, agents and factories. It was as they say, a marriage made in heaven.

This tribute is just only one of countless ones of love, gratitude and friendship received by the Kohner family from many people from all over the world. He was simply beloved by so very many Kohner fans everywhere.

 I will never ever forget experiences I had with the great Michael Kohner. His business savy and judgement were incredible. His humor was ultra professional. His friendship was priceless. Surely his countless business and personal friends who love him will never see the likes of a great man like Michael Kohner ever again.

And that ladies and gentlemen is why everyone who reads the Fuhrer tributes will be extremely fortunate to have known and loved a man like the truly great Michael Kohner.

- Bob Gellman

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Michael was my friend and agent for more than 40 years. During that time, we worked on and placed more than 150 games together. He was a special person to my entire family. My daughters thought of him as almost a third grandfather. We will all miss him tremendously!

- David Mair

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I've known Mike for as long as I can remember. He was one of my father's closest friends, so growing up he felt more like an uncle than a family friend. My mother was friends with his wife, Elaine, and they'd all go out to dinner together. Other times, Mike would stop by the house with his former partner-in-crime, Bob Gelman, and they'd head out fishing on my father's boat.

When they came back, I'd be tasked with taking photos of them showing off their catches while Mike tried to slip me five dollars to use "trick photography" and make his fish look bigger than everyone else's.

Later, when I was studying at FIT, I'd often meet my father and Mike at the Toy Building after class. Sitting in that showroom, Mike taught me more about the toy industry—and human nature—than any classroom ever could. He'd smoke cigarettes (he eventually quit), crack jokes, and call out to Merner at the front desk to bring us something to drink. The banter between them was hysterical. I spent countless hours there, and I can still picture that showroom perfectly today.

Years later, when I was running Design Edge, Mike and I developed our own running joke. He'd try to negotiate better pricing by offering me a bag of peanut M&M's. And he never bought the small bags—he always showed up with the giant bag.

A few years after that, Mike and Bob joined me on my first trip to Hong Kong. Thinking I was about to experience authentic Chinese cuisine, I was surprised when Mike told me to meet him at La Taverna. La Taverna was, if I remember correctly, the oldest Italian restaurant in Hong Kong. The juxtaposition perfectly captured the city itself and helped me understand just how international Hong Kong, and the Toy Industry, really was.

The handover back to China was approaching, and once again Mike became my teacher, helping me understand why paying attention to the geopolitical landscape mattered just as much as understanding the toy business.

Over the next decade, whenever Mike needed a hand, we were always happy to help, working with him on countless products for Longshore long before Longshore became what it is today.

Then something funny started happening.

One day someone asked me if I knew Michael Kohner. Then someone else did. Then another person after that.

You see, while most people spend their later years slowing down or perfecting their golf game, Mike decided to give back to the toy industry. Through People of Play, he became a mentor to countless inventors and inventor-relations executives.

Suddenly, Mike was famous.

I'd sit back and laugh as people spoke about him with genuine awe. It was like watching your crazy uncle become the most popular person in the room. And man, did he win everyone over.

I'd known that version of Mike my entire life. Then I watched the rest of the toy industry discover what I'd always known. I was proud of him.

In recent years, I have constantly met people who counted Mike among their closest friends. That was his gift. He made people feel special.

And if Mike really liked you, you earned a seat at the Keen's dinner table during Toy Fair—a tradition that seemed to grow more meaningful with every passing year. At those dinners, you could always tell who had known Mike forever and who still couldn't quite believe they'd been invited. Mike had a remarkable ability to make people feel blessed simply to be included.

The funny thing is, Mike made everyone feel like they were part of something bigger. Whether you'd known him for forty years or forty minutes, he gave you his time, his attention, and usually a story you'd be repeating for years afterward.

Even as I write this, I'm looking at the book he gave me for my 50th birthday, after taking me out for a steak dinner I'll never forget.

Mike was family to me.

So Mike, thank you for everything. Thank you for the lessons, the laughs, the stories, the dinners, the M&M's, and the friendship.

You will be missed.

- Matt Nuccio, Design Edge

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I first met Michael at a dinner in Chicago; I was new to the industry and we were both 'under the afluence of incohol;' a favorite 'Kohnerism'. We bonded over music, family and traditions. A week later he called me, and I was floored that he remembered every single detail of what we talked about. He asked about my family and my life, and he TRULY cared about it. It's what he was always about, connecting with people and deeply caring.

I was then fortunate to go to one of his (in)famous gatherings. I was so honored to be a part of this. There, with people from every nook of the global toy industry, he held court with toy company owners, inventors, friends, family. It didn't matter who you were or what you did, if you were his friend he added you to his family and he made everyone feel this way. 

One day, when we shared an 8 person chocolate cake between the two of us, drinking sherry in his living room and him telling me the story of the stuffed Marlin on his wall…...I  realised something that was one of (the million) favorite things about Michael….he made every moment with him feel like a real occasion. It didn't matter if it was 100 people in a room, or just the two of you. He knew exactly how to live life and how to deeply share this with the people that he loved.

The magnitude of his work, and the Kohner family's, along with his inspirational work ethic, is only surpassed by the legacy of his generosity, respect, mentorship, love and unmistakeable humour. No one else could go from a serious, meaningful conversation to busting your chops by the end of it. He made you realise what matters, and he gave me and so many others far more than I could ever give back. Losing him is hard, but I know how fortunate we are to have had him in our lives and we will carry on the lessons he so kindly left us.

I've come to love a lot of yiddish phrases through Michael, and although there is not direct translation for 'Mensch' in Scots/Doric; I can say 'Yer a braw, couthie chiel'. Rest in peace, Mr Kohner.

- Dougal Grimes, Eighty-Two

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We are heartbroken by the passing of Michael Kohner.  

I still remember our good old days (40 years ago) when we traveled around Europe, running up and down at the New York toy building and presenting new games together, those moments are fond memories.

We will miss Michael deeply, and he will always be in our hearts.

-Michael Or, Longshore

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I’m heartbroken to hear of Michael’s passing.

I met Michael over a decade ago when I was just finding my footing in the toy inventing community. From day one, he welcomed me into this crazy, wonderful industry with open arms and made me feel like I belonged.

I’ll always cherish our hour-long phone calls. We’d spend a little time talking about work, but most of our conversations were about family. Michael was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren, and it was impossible not to feel his love for them every time he spoke about them.

Michael was a constant connector in our industry. He had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, and so many of my favorite memories with toy friends happened because Michael made them happen. Time and again, he gathered the best of the best and created opportunities for friendships and connections that will last a lifetime.

His impact on the toy community was immeasurable, but what I’ll remember most is his kindness, generosity, and genuine care for the people around him.

I will never forget Michael. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and forever in my heart.

Sending love and condolences to his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

- Naomi Brugnatelli, Hasbro

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After forty plus years in this industry I have met a few really good people but none better than Kohner. I will always remember him as one of the true greats. RIP Mk   

- Michael Albert

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Michael has been and will remain a guiding star for all of us, and it’s long been evident that he made everybody around him better by generously sharing his friendship,  kindness and wisdom. I’m certainly richer for knowing Michael personally and he leaves an indelible mark. He will forever be held in our hearts as one of the all-time greats! 

- Peggy Brown

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It will be three decades. Over those years, through hundreds of meetings and countless dealings — whether in New York, New Jersey, Hong Kong, London or Henley — our friendship grew far beyond business.

Some of the most enjoyable moments were those unforgettable Kohner nights, and the many wonderful times we shared in each other’s homes. Over more than thirty years, Wendy and I have been so fortunate to share so many good times with you and Elaine.

I remember so clearly our wedding in Henley, when Wendy and I were honoured that you and Elaine came to celebrate with us. It meant more than I can properly put into words.

There were also those personal dinners — just us — full of laughter, stories and warmth. And I still smile thinking of the trips to New Jersey when you proudly showed me not one, not two, but at least three of your new cars. The Jaguar XK was always your favourite, if I recall correctly.

What fun we had. What memories we made.

I’ve found a few photos that bring all of this flooding back, and I wanted to share them with you — as a small reminder of a friendship that has meant so much, for so long.

With love, respect, and gratitude — and with you always in our thoughts.

- Mike Moody, Seven Towns

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Michael Kohner was one of those rare people who left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was kind, generous, warm-hearted, and endlessly welcoming. More than that, he had a remarkable gift for bringing people together. In an industry that could often be competitive, Michael created connections, friendships, and a sense of family that extended far beyond business.

I was lucky enough to share so many wonderful memories with Michael over the years. From Broadway shows to fabulous dinners that always seemed to involve far too much meat, every moment was filled with laughter, great conversation, and genuine friendship. Michael had a way of making people feel special. Whether you had known him for decades or had just met him, he made you feel seen, valued, and welcome.

That was Michael’s gift. He didn’t just build business relationships; he built lasting friendships. He brought people together, celebrated the successes of others, and made an entire industry feel a little smaller, warmer, and more connected.

The toy industry has lost one of its great champions, but those of us who knew Michael have lost something even more precious—a dear friend. I will remember his warmth, his generosity, his humour, and the joy he brought to every room he entered. I will always be grateful for the memories we shared and for the friendship he so freely gave.

Thank you, Michael. The world is a better place because you were in it.

- Elizabeth Moody 

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Michael has been woven into so many meaningful chapters of my life in toys and games — first when I had the honor of standing beside him on stage at ChiTAG as he received a Lifetime Achievement Award, and later as someone I was privileged to learn from, do business with, and ultimately call a true friend. Few people get to meet their legends; I got to sit at the table with mine, where he respectfully held no punches in negotiations. He has been an inspiration, a mentor, and most importantly a dear friend.

- Rich Mazel

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From the first moment I met Michael I felt like I had met one of the greats. He has inspired me to be a woman of integrity and purpose. Inclusion into his events always made me feel like I was in a very special secret society. I will fover be grateful to Michael for his friendship, sense of humor and love of country music. TIL I see you again my dear friend. Godspeed. 

- Karri Bean, Disney

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Michael and I have known each other for over 55 years. Our fathers and uncles knew each other long before we did. In all that time, I can’t remember a single moment when we didn’t laugh together or share something we would later regret — not once.

His love of life, family, and friends was front and center every single day.

I was fortunate enough to see him two and a half weeks ago at his home. We shared more laughs than tears, more hugs than heartaches. We had our “guy time” — drinks and dinner at the kitchen table (and wow, the bagels and lox were good). We told jokes — some good, some not so good — and talked about family and friends. It was four hours of Michael at his very best.

When it was time to leave, we said our goodbyes and promised we would see each other again. Michael said, “Hey, don’t make it too soon — I’ve got to check out the golf courses first.” Typical Michael.

He said goodbye with warm hands. I told him I would miss him and that I loved him.

His response: “I love you more.”

That’s Michael Kohner.

Miss you, buddy. And thank you for being my friend — and for letting me be yours.

Brenda and I shared many special occasions with Michael and Dede over the past couple of years, and we were fortunate to spend time with Michael’s family — Marci, Paul, and his grandchildren. The common thread in every moment was the incredible love they all had for Michael — and his constant “Love you more” right back at them.

Michael’s medical team, his family, his friends, and his own unmatched will to live stood beside him every step of the way.

Brenda and I will miss him deeply — until we see him again.

- George Irwin

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Mike Kohner, for me, was a champion. When I was a kid visiting toy stores on a regular basis, I was always looking at the board game area. The Trouble Game was one of my favorites with the Pop-O-Matic Bubble in the middle of the board. When I met Mike, it was like meeting one of your heros. Whatever the occasion, a Matt Nuccio wedding, A New York steakhouse dinner, Toy Fair, a product meeting, I always got Mike to myself to talk board games for as long as I could.

Mike is a special man. His warmth surrounds you. His integrity is unquestioned. He has been a giver in life. He is LOVED by so many friends for a good reason. He loves you back. His relationships and his passion keep him going into his 80's as a licensing star as well. Mike will always stand as one of the giants of gameworld. 

I believe he deserves to be in the TOY HALL OF FAME and I hope we can all lobby for that to happen.

God Speed my friend,

- Kevin McNulty, Endless Games

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Michael is my favorite person in the game industry. I feel he took me under his wings 17 years ago. I had the privilege to be part of the theatre group in NY and always had time for me. 

- Jenni Jalava, Martinex Oy

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Dad 2. Thank you for the warm HGHs that felt like coming home, for the delicious glass of AS that somehow kept refilling like magic, and for being the witness to a life changing moment that I will never forget. Thank you for always, love you forever. The other “daughter”  

- Jael Golad, Goliath

If you would like you have your memories and photos included, please send to mcouzin@toyassociation.org.