Allen Ruiz, co-owner of Jackson Ruiz Salon in Austin, Texas, said, “Horst was truly a visionary artist and entrepreneur. His exclusive product line that focused on Concept and Lifestyle Salons really raised the bar on the industry, making it something I wanted to be a part of. His impact on the industry and the world will be remembered for a long time to come.”

Paul Villeneuve, VP of Creative for AI South says he was heavily influenced by Horst, who taught him, “By committing to the pursuit of excellence in our craft, we will elevate the craft and ourselves to new levels and lifelong growth.”

Villeneuve adds, “I also learned from Horst that in service to others — guests, students, community, family — you’ll find life’s greatest rewards.”

“And finally, Horst showed us all that through the study of nature we find the highest performing, most sustainable solutions to living in our world.”

Tom Petrillo, Principal at The Salon People, was deeply impacted by Horst’s legacy.

“As I reflect on the impact Horst has had on my life, I become overwhelmed with gratitude and a deep desire to pass it forward,” he said.

Ric Wilson, co-owner and artistic director of Pure Aveda Salonspa, said, “I had the honor to work closely with Horst in the ’80s, receiving his mentorship and witnessing the unique way he regarded our industry. He was a visionary who used his influence to create awareness and compassion for the environment, inevitably changing beauty professionals’ attitudes about beauty, fashion and wellness. The products he created brought about the ‘soil to bottle conciseness.’

“Horst’s pioneering efforts paved the way for others, like me, to innovate and improve our industry. He changed the way we thought about the salon lifestyle and introduced concepts of sustainability within natural-based products, long before they became popular. The way I operate my salons and the manner in which I educate is a direct result of my experience with Horst.