Charlie Hart, general manager at Kensington Publishing Corp., died suddenly on March 4 at the age of 62. During his 17-year tenure at Kensington, Hart oversaw many changes in the business, including the acquisition of Carol Publishing and Citadel Press, and two warehouse moves. Kensington called him instrumental in the recent distribution change to Penguin Random House Publisher Service, which was completed on March 1.

“We all are mourning the loss of our dear colleague, who passed away far too young," said Steven Zacharius, Kensington president and CEO. "He worked in publishing his entire life, and his brilliance and passion for this industry can never be replaced. Charlie was a friend, trusted adviser, and mentor to so many people in our business. Our thoughts are with his wife, daughter, and entire family.”

Before coming to Kensington, Charlie held positions at Simon & Schuster, as the business manager from 1990 to 1996, and at Picture Book Studios.

Hart is survived by his wife Carolyn and daughter Jennifer.