Mattel co-founder, Elliot Handler, dies at 95

Elliot Handler, the co-founder of the Mattel toy company, passed away last night.

Handler, 95, was taken to the hospital on Thursday night and passed away shortly after, from heart failure.

Handler and his business partner, Harold Matson, founded Mattel in 1945. It has since become the world’s largest toy company and includes over 100 toys and over 30 games.

During his time as co-founder, Handler contributed to a number of successful product lines.

His wife, Ruth, created the Barbie doll back in the 1950s and Handler was responsible for naming the doll. He decided to name it after the couples’ daughter, Barbara.

The business tycoon was also responsible for the introduction of Liddle Kiddles, which were introduced in 1965, and Hot Wheels, which were introduced in 1968 and are still being produced to this day.