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HARLAN PRUGER Obituary

PRUGER--Harlan, 82, passed away peacefully at home in Greenburg, New York, after his long brave fight with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving wife of 52 years, Elizabeth Pruger, sons David and Jason Pruger, daughter-in-law Julie Pruger and granddaughter Daniela Pruger. He inspired everyone around him with his kindness, giving nature, wisdom and loving spirit. As a New York City teacher, Assistant Principal at IS 127 and Principal at IS 144 he loved kids and making their lives better. In his never-ending sense of curiosity and love of life and adventure, he went to visit over 100 countries on six continents. Harlan embraced the beauty of life and will be remembered for living a life full of happiness, equality, integrity, love of life and giving back. Memorial services will be held 1pm Monday, January 1st, 2018 at Plaza Jewish Community Chapel, 630 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10024. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to The Prostate Cancer Foundation www.pcf.org Teacher, leader, friend. Rest in peace Harlan Pruger.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Dec. 31, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for HARLAN PRUGER

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Eleanor Pruger Seepes

July 17, 2025

Uncle Butchie! A that stuck for so many of the long-life years. He knew no bounds in bringing a room filled with family and fans. No politician made a move that went unnoticed by Uncle Butchie. But don't get on his bad side. He reminded this little sister over and over that he was the boss. But he was always at my side when my going got tuff. Never a dull moment..and he LOVED an audience---as they loved him. Uncle Butchie--YOU ARE SO MISSED!

Gila Lipton

December 25, 2024

Though I have written many times, I am moved to do so yet again. Everyone can make a difference in another's lives just by choosing to do so & acting. Mr. Pruger , as principal, working with 1 of the student interns I sent from the HS Internships Program did that for this young man. In turn, I'm sure he remembered & helped others down the line. Mr. Pruger was exemplary & memorable. His memory is a blessing. Warmest wishes to his family. Gila Lipton

Erik Staub

August 7, 2023

He was my teachers in the three year SP at JHS 127. He was one of the finest most dedicated teachers I ever had. He was an enthusiastic and caring science teacher. I learned so much and glad he got married and had a family.

Gila Lipton

December 26, 2020

The wonderful aspect about being an educator is that one never knows how far & how lasting his/her influence may be. Harlan was so spectacular that I'm sure that not only has his influence been felt by so many, but it is probably passed on to people who never even met him. A magnificent person; may he rest in peace.
Gila Lipton

Gila Lipton

December 25, 2019

Just a few days ago, I was reminiscing with my also- retired colleague who had suggested that I contact Harlan to place a HS student intern at Harlan's school.We were talking about how,sadly, some people seem to sabotage a young person's life while others, such as Harlan, transform the lives of their students. Hopefully, these students will pass on his gifs. His legacy lives on! Again, thanks. May he rest in peace. Gila Lipton

January 12, 2018

May he R.I.P and may grieving ones be comforted by memories shared with Harlan and the promise of our Heavenly Father to dry our tears,doing away with death and pain shortly.

Gila Lipton

January 7, 2018

In 1988, as a teacher-coordinator of a high school internships program, I sent a student intern to IS 144. Mr. Pruger changed the life of this young man. Ever since, I have remembered Mr. Pruger as a most special person. May he rest in peace and may the family be comforted.
I send my heartfelt condolences.

Shaila and Ash Narayana

January 2, 2018

He may have physically passed on, but lives within all of us, who have been inspired by him. We will forever be thankful for having had the privilege of knowing him.

January 1, 2018

Harlan you were one gracious man.Thank you for the many summers . Regrets to liz and family. Ilene and Todd Barkan

Lou and Linda Magid

December 31, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz and all of Harlan's family.

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