In Memoriam: Denise Gartland Novolselski 

CRA is sad to share the news of the passing of Denise Gartland Novoselski. Denise was the daughter of James Gartland, founder of Rental Equipment Register and the namesake of CRA’s Gartland/Blackwell Memorial Award. Denise and her husband Tim founded Special Events Magazine as well as The Special Event Tradeshow, the first party and catering industry tradeshow.

Denise Gartland Novoselski  passed away on March 15, 2023 in Malibu, CA. Denise was born in Pasadena and grew up in Pacific Palisades, CA. She was the daughter of James J. Gartland (d.1980) and Betty F. Gartland (d. 2020). She is survived by her siblings, Patricia Gartland, James J. Gartland Jr., and Barbara Gartland, and her beloved 6 nieces and nephews and 5 grandnieces and nephews. 

Denise was married to Timothy Novoselski (d. 2013) for 35 years. They met as journalism majors at USC and worked side-by-side as the first ever co-editors of the Daily Trojan. Denise and Tim would continue to work together for many, many years. This included a move to Idaho in their early marriage, where they both worked at the local newspaper. This began their lifelong love affair with McCall, Idaho, and the many friends they made there. Eventually, they returned home to California and became co-publishers for Miramar Publishing Company, Denise's family's business.

Denise was always creating–writing, painting and designing. Her love for jewelry design began with a collection of beads and metals collected in her many travels around the world and evolved into a successful business–a reflection of her inner spirit. "Denise James" jewelry was carried in many fine boutiques and acquired quite a following.

Denise loved the ocean, lakes, mountains, and woods and streams. She and Tim had a sprawling ranch in Idaho and a lovely home perched high above the Pacific Ocean in Malibu. Important in her life were her and Tim's beloved huskies—she was devoted to them and they to her. She was a wonderful sister, an amazing friend, and a generous philanthropist to many causes. Denise will be missed by the many who knew her and whose lives she touched.

A memorial celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Denise asks that a pebble or rock be tossed into a body of water in her honor.