Nathan “Nate” Goller, 95, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2023, at Beachwood Post-Acute & Rehab in Santa Monica, California, with his loving wife Irina Maleeva by his side. Nate was known for his successful careers as an attorney and real estate mogul since the mid-1950s. However, he was probably better known for his wry sense of humor and being an integral part of the West Hollywood business community, with many considering him a friend to all he encountered.
Born in 1928 in New York City, Nate arrived in Los Angeles in 1944 and later joined the Army. He graduated from USC School of Law in 1951. Five years later, Nate and his first wife, designer Phyllis Morris, founded Phyllis Morris Originals, a company that created custom furniture for top names in the corporate and entertainment realms. With a larger-than-life personality, Nate and his second wife, actress and singer Irina (whom he met in 1989 through his daughter Jamie), always enjoyed entertaining at their hilltop Beverly Hills home where good times prevailed, and champagne flowed endlessly.
Nate was highly regarded in the West Hollywood business community and was sought after for his sage advice in both law and investments. He had close friendships with some of Los Angeles’ leading business and community figures. In 2013, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for his dedication to the community through his many endeavors and charitable contributions. He was also involved in the “Robertson Lane” hotel/retail project as a developing partner with West Hollywood developer Faring.
Family was the true love of Nate’s life, and throughout the decades, he was always surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his wife Irina, daughters Rocky Schofield and Jamie Adler, son James “Jimmy” Goller, son-in-law John Adler, daughter-in-law Miriam Goller, and many grandchildren, including siblings Philip, Jake, and Ruby Adler. He was predeceased by Phyllis Morris and daughter Melinda “Dindi” Goller. Nate’s special brand of humor and unique charm will be truly missed.
Many in the community expressed sadness at the loss of Nate Goller, including Genevieve Morrill, CEO, and President of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, who highlighted his significant contributions to the city’s development. Jason Iloulian, President of Faring Capital and the developer of Robertson Lane, also acknowledged Nate’s legacy and leadership in transforming West Hollywood into the creative city it is today. Former Council member John Duran spoke to Nate’s impact on the community and his involvement in restoring Robertson Blvd.
Nate Goller’s life and legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on West Hollywood for years to come.
Many in the community expressed sadness at the loss of Gollar. His unique charm and commitment to West Hollywood was noted by Genevieve Morrill, CEO and President of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
“Nate Goller was an amazing man and one of the founding stake holders of the design district. He helped build this city and was so valuable to the visitor bureau and Chamber development,” she said. “He served on our board of governors for many decades. Nate was a dear friend and was there to provide me sage advice when I took on my new role at the chamber.”
Jason Iloulian, President of Faring Capital and the developer of Robertson Lane, noted the passing of Gollar.
“Nate Goller was a local legend and leader of the generation that transformed West Hollywood into the creative City we know today. From Phyllis Morris Originals to the WeHo Chamber of Commerce and the future Robertson Lane project, Nate Goller’s legacy lives on in West Hollywood,” he said.
Former Council member John Duran spoke to the legacy of Goller in West Hollywood. “Nate Goller is one of the Chamber of Commerce pillars in West Hollywood. He was very involved in the Robertson Blvd restoration. Sadly – we lost another leader from West Hollywood’s early years after incorporation”. Duran added that Nate was one of the co owners of the property that housed the historic Studio One gay disco. He was also the father to Jamie Adler who owns Jamie Adler designs on Robertson Blvd.
The life and legacy of Nate Goller will live on in West Hollywood for years to come.
Rest in peace, Nate. Nate Goller was one of the major property owners along Robertson Boulevard and a key player in the development of the City of West Hollywood into a global center of design, art and hospitality. He was always available to share his decades of experience with anyone who asked. He served on the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors for decades. My deepest condolences to the Goller and Adler families.