Interior Designer & TV Host Genevieve Gorder Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Late HGTV Producer Loren Ruch

Interior designer and television personality Genevieve Gorder—widely recognized for her work on HGTV classics like Trading Spaces, Dear Genevieve, and Design Star—has paid tribute to her longtime friend, producer, and creative partner Loren Ruch. In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on June 14, 2025, Gorder expressed both personal sorrow and admiration for Ruch, honoring his profound influence on her life and the broader design television industry.

In the touching message, Gorder described Loren Ruch as “one of my best friends, my producer, my twin spirit, my playmate who got my silly.” She recalled their close bond with poignant humor and affection, writing, “We were Leo kittens who just wanted a ball of yarn and endless amounts of time.”

Ruch, known for his contributions to popular lifestyle and design television, was celebrated by Gorder for his unmatched ability to bring people together. “My heart is in a million pieces,” she admitted, “but never have I felt more loved than by the web of beautiful souls he curated and connected, nurtured and promoted.”

Referencing his career highlights, Gorder mentioned shows like Design Star, Battle on the Block, and even connections to the White House. She praised Ruch for transforming work into joy and friendship, emphasizing that “work wasn’t work when we were together.”

“His wake is mighty in this new absence,” she wrote, “but the love he gave to all of us and what he left behind is the grandest wave of them all.”

The post concluded with a simple yet powerful message: “Thank you Loren for all of the light. I love you forever.”

The announcement has since drawn heartfelt reactions from colleagues, fans, and fellow creatives who knew or were touched by Ruch’s work and spirit. As the design and television communities mourn this significant loss, Genevieve Gorder’s tribute serves as a reminder of the lasting legacy Loren Ruch leaves behind—one built on creativity, connection, and love.

Who Was Loren Ruch?

Loren Ruch wasn’t just a producer—he was a powerhouse behind the scenes of HGTV and one of the creative minds who helped shape much of what viewers loved about design television. With a career that spanned decades, he served most recently as Head of Content for Warner Bros. Discovery’s HGTV and was involved in developing hit shows like My Lottery Dream Home, HGTV Dream Home, Battle on the Beach, Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge, and A Very Brady Renovation.

Before joining HGTV, Ruch had already built a name for himself in local television, winning five Emmy Awards for his work at KTTV’s Good Day LA in Los Angeles. His creative direction and infectious spirit made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Tragically, Loren passed away on June 12, 2025, at the age of 55, following a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia. He died peacefully, surrounded by his husband of nearly 27 years, David Salas, and close friends. His death came as a shock to many in the industry, and tributes have poured in remembering not just his professional impact but his warmth, humor, and commitment to lifting others up.

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He is survived by his husband, David, his parents Dolly Norris and Larry Ruch, and his brother Geoffrey Ruch. Loren also served on the board of Live Out Loud, an organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth, and was known for mentoring countless creatives throughout his life.

His legacy continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched—on screen and off.

A Tribute from His Husband, David Salas

In a deeply moving message, Loren’s husband, David Salas, shared his heartbreak with the world:

“I never thought I would have to write this post, NEVER! I’ve been trying to come up with the words to write, but I’m still at a loss because I can’t believe he’s not here.”

David reflected on the moment their journey began—December 16, 1998, at Restoration Hardware in the Beverly Center:

“Meeting Loren 27 years ago… I had no idea how much my life would change for the better!”

David described Loren as someone who saw the best in everyone and made each person feel special and seen. He called Loren “the kindest, most loving man in existence” and remembered how his humility and curiosity stood out:

“He never talked about himself and would always ask questions about the person he was talking to. (Or as I would say, Loren would go into ‘interview mode.’)”

Reflecting on Loren’s legacy, David said:

“Loren was pure LOVE, pure JOY and he SHINED so BRIGHT! He was all of those to me and much more… Loren is SHINING BRIGHTER than ever for ALL OF US now.”

He concluded with a powerful reminder, posted on the eve of New York Pride:

“So today… please remember to share your JOY, LOVE and LIGHT. Be KIND and tell your family & friends that you LOVE THEM! I LOVE YOU ALL.”

David’s tribute captures the essence of who Loren was—not just an industry icon, but a man whose legacy is defined by compassion, encouragement, and unconditional love.