Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

HARRY SCHWARTZ Obituary

SCHWARTZ--Harry S. Born in The Bronx, New York during The Great Depression, Harry was an enterprising competitive young bodybuilder whose free thinking initiative took him from busboy to multi-gym-owner entrepreneur who changed the face of gym-style training forever. Sadly seldom seen in any successful field of endeavor, Harry was renowned for being honest straight-shooter in every aspect of his life. An ex-Marine, Harry never shied to try his hand at anything that captured his imagination. Before becoming a gym-owning tycoon he played supportive roles in Hollywood movies, was a regular feature in the famous film "The Mae West Show", and fooled on stage with comedian Jimmy Durante in Vegas. As a gym owner he quickly earned a reputation of being animated, energetic workaholic who always put principle before profit. One who would never flinch from doing his utmost to guide thousands of eager gym members in building increased body strength and physical improvement without drugs. Once met never forgotten, Harry was rightfully nicknamed "Mr. Integrity" by his biographer. To many he was the personification of just the man you would welcome into your life. Handsome Harry (a name he picked up on Muscle Beach in his twenties) lived for 93 years and 45 days, and he never wasted one of them. He passed away at home surrounded by his loved ones on October 31, 2023. He is survived by his devoted wife and life partner, author Jerry Brown Schwartz.

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

Published by New York Times on Nov. 10, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for HARRY SCHWARTZ

47 Entries

Gloria Roth

November 4, 2025

Harry will always live on my memories. I was his Jane and he was my Tarzan. He was my best first cousin. We had a wonderful childhood. As adults, we spent many visits to his lovely home, with his most beautiful loving wife, Jerry Brown. They were the most gracious and warm host.
Gone but never forgotten!
Love - Goo Goo Gloria

lynn ward

Planted Trees

lynn ward

November 4, 2025

Harry was a blessing if he was in your life and he could never be forgotten. I never could and he's always in my mind.

Randy Gray

November 4, 2025

I delivered to Harry and his wife for years he would have me a breakfast bar every time I was st his home.

How you can show support

Get email updates whenever changes are made.

Send flowers

Consider sending flowers.

Add photos

Share their life with photo memories.

Plant trees

Honor them by planting trees in their memory.

Donate in Memory

Make a donation in memory of your loved one.

Share this page

Invite other friends and family to visit the page.

Lynn ward

Planted Trees

Joseph T. Kessell

January 3, 2025

It would be unfair to speak of Harry Schwartz without mentioning the name Eddie Kessell (deseaced)m1996). From his days at Muscle Beach, to working with Harry for Viv Tanney in California and Toronto, Canada, they were forever linked in life
The success of Jack LaLanne gyms had much to do with the way those two interacted with eachother. Eddie could sell Eskimo snow on a bad day and bring in ton of money with Harry on a good day.
I remember the name Harry Schwartz from the time I was young. Meeting him as a child and eventually meeting and working for him as a young adult. Being assigned to pick up Jack LaLanne from the airport to his hotel for a new gym opening and having one on one conversation with both Jack and Harry over the years. Jack would call me "Joey" every time we met. And to watch my brother interact with Jack brought a smile to my face. Yes, Eddie was the best salesman Jack and Harry ever worked with and a legend in the gym business.
The old time stories he would tell me about the great Champion body builder and dear friend, Tommy Sansone, Mr. Universe and Vic and Armand Tanney selling memberships in Canada were treasured moments.
Write me back on my e-mail address of your memories of Eddie. Sorry for your loss, Joe Kessell

Bill Higginbotham

December 18, 2024

Look forward to one day bumping elbows again with you when I move on to the other side.

lynn ward

November 4, 2024

Miss him.... Think of him always.....Love him always....

Jeffrey Greenfield

May 16, 2024

My father worked for him at JLL for many years. Harry bought us a house in Tenafly NJ and moved us from Queens to have my dad open gyms in NJ/NY. One of the most interesting people you could ever meet. When I was 13 and about to be Bar Mitzvahed Harry told my dad he wanted to talk to me. My father said "Just so you know you won´t have to talk, Harry will do all of the speaking. Just listen and learn". Harry spoke to me for 30 minutes to the second and gave me great advice and kind words. My father spoke about him all the time. He had an incredible impact on him. About 10 years ago I made a TV pilot and used Harry´s last name. He was a legend.

MICHAEL FROST

April 21, 2024

Blessing. Rest in Peace.

Matt Bailey

March 18, 2024

Harry,
You were the single most influential people that ever entered my life. You met me when I was a 21 year old mechanic. You told me that I could be much more and run the shop. I was perfectly fine with being a mechanic, but you pushed me to do more. Now I am a 43 year old that thinks back on those days wondering where I would have ended up without all of your advice over the years. You single handedly made me a better person, a more successful person, a wonderful father with integrity in everything I do. When I was thinking of changing careers, you said do it, you are still young enough to be successful in another career. I had my doubts and had a young family so it was a big jump for me. But with your energy and wisdom I did it. You were always a father figure to me and I think about you every day. I miss talking to you and hearing your thoughts on my business moves, my personal life, and just good conversation. I truly think about you every day. You deserved the wonderful life you created because you were one of a kind. I never wanted to let you down, and anytime I consider making a life choice I feel you are here with me giving me clarity and wisdom. You have no idea what an impact you made. I will always love you. See you again someday friend.

Dawn & Grant Salmon

January 28, 2024

I only heard the news today that Harry passed away. My heart sank, and tears welled up in my eyes. He was such a wonderful part of mine, and my husband's life. We 1st met in the 1991 at the legendary Van Gogh's restaurant. I took care of Harry & Jerry when they dined with us. He and Jerry quickly become so much more than a patrons. My husband was a big fan of his as well, as they both had the love of the gym. When we were pregnant with out 1st son, Harry made sure to have a new baby crib delivered to our home, along with a Rocking Horse.. that we still have, named " Harry the Horse " that both my boys & nephew have enjoyed. I will also treasure
"The Schwatz dollar" I have, he always made me feel so special and loved. So much to say about a man I so dearly loved, and will miss deeply. Im so grateful to have shared some wonderful years of my life knowing him. Rest in peace Harry. Sending so much love to you Jerry, and all of the family.
With much love, Dawn & Grant Salmon

Dominic Lopez

January 23, 2024

I met Harry schwartz, it rain water a restaurant in Alpharetta Georgia around the year 2000. He, and his wife jerry, we're so kind to me over the years. They even brought me a basket of gift wrapped presents for my 50th birthday. I will never forget how Harry and Jerry treated me, I was only their waiter at the time, but they treated me first class all the way. I consider myself lucky, to be able to tell the very shorts story to people every once in awhile.

Gerry Gilmore, Cpl. USMC

January 23, 2024

Today, after reading an older NY Times article about The Vertical Club, I learned of Harry's passing. I immediately thought of many parts of my JLL days. Ectomorphs, Endomorphs, Mesomorphs. DSP, difficult sales procedure OR don't stop pitching! Contest trips to the Bahamas and the MEGA contest trips to the Fountainbleu in Miami. Harry and I sometimes butted heads but as a fellow Marine, he garnered my greatest respect. A true Renaissance man. Semper Fi!

Joseph Aquino

January 11, 2024

Here’s a great photo of Harry and his executive team before he joined Health & Tennis of America and Bally´s Fitness. He was about to enter the fast paced mergers & acquisition period of the 80´s which he grew the company from 16 to 40 locations.

Randy Gray

January 3, 2024

So sorry to hear about Harry passing I pray that God will comfort you Mrs. Schwartz. RIP your Federal Express courier Randy

Steven Wolf

December 17, 2023

I was a 19 year old kid when I met Harry. I went to work for him at the Jack LaLanne in Douglaston NY. That was over 50 years ago. I would come in to work early to exercise before starting work at 10am and Harry would come into the gym to watch what I was doing and give me advice about my routine. He would say that he liked the way I talked and that I would be good in sales. Two years later he promoted me to manager of the club at 86th St. and Lexington Ave. in Manhattan. Through the years I worked for him, we often had conversations about ways to get ahead and succeed in business. Those inspirational talks set me up for a successful sales career for the rest of my life.
Through the years, after I left the gym business, we stayed in touch. An occasional phone call which would start with Harry asking how business was and giving me advice as to what he thought my next moves should be. He was always right. Then the conversation would turn to work out routines and the latest nutritional supplements he recommended. Many times I would receive a package in the mail from Harry. Either a book on exotic cars, he loved cars, or a book by one of his body builder friends like Frank Zane or a copy of a magazine article written about him like the one I have displayed in my home gym entitled " Harry Schwartz-Modest Maverick of Muscle". And of course we always exchanged a Christmas card and letter each year to catch up on the previous years events.
I know that I am only one of the so many people whose lives were touched and enriched by this bigger than life person. I can only say that I am honored and so fortunate to be one of those who stayed in his thoughts all these years.
Rest peacefully my friend

John E Wilton

December 15, 2023

Mr Harry Schwartz

Legends are forged by unwavering disciplines of integrity
In the case of this true Hero , we the ones lives who he touched know the meaning of integrity commitment and the endless pursuit of dignity through work effort
Harry your influence on my life help forge my legacy and that of so many.
I have repeated Harryism´s thousands of times in my life.
Wisdom never dies it is handed down to future generations.
As a Veteran I was PROUD to serve under your command

Joe Aquino

December 14, 2023

Harry was such a character; he used to get up in front of podium and tell 300 + people his life stories. One was how he still ate tuna out of the can to remind himself how poor he was. Another story was how he was a wanna be actor doing bit parts for Mae West as a body builder. He overheard two gals say. "There´s Harry the loser." That sparked him to quit acting and start to climb the ladder of success in the gym business. Then when he was employed by Vic Tanny, he used to talk to the person sitting next to
him at lunch, usually a gentleman. He would then persuade him to come back to the gym and he would show him the benefits of lifting weights. He would profess working out like a Christian would profess the Gospel.
For years I was inspired by this man.
Lets not be sadden by his loss. Let celebrate his wonderful life.
Rest in Peace my mentor.
P.S. St. Peter could use better biceps. See what you can do. Please introduce him to the curling iron.
Warm regards,
Joseph Aquino

Lisa Garner

December 4, 2023

Harry is and was such a very special person. I remember our telephone calls and visits. He was the most honest and forthright person that I have ever had the pleasure to call my friend. Right! He did not hesitate to let me know what I needed to do with my business in order to be successful and I can tell you he is one that I I have had the pleasure of working with Harry as his personal insurance agent as well as calling him my friend for over 25 years. My friend I will never forget you! Your Insite, knowledge and all of the support over the years. May you rest in peace and know we will see you again! love to you Harry, Jerry and the family.

Bill and Jan Milburn

December 3, 2023

Harry Schwartz was a true gentleman who started with nothing but integrity and boundless energy. Through hard work and a focus on his team members' and customers' satisfaction Harry built a business organization that was the envy of many. Harry was a patriot Marine, championship body-builder, a loyal friend, a brilliant businessman, a generous philanthropist, and a great mentor. Harry was generous in many ways but most importantly he blessed many by sharing his time and wisdom. Like a father Harry took great pride in the accomplishments of those that he mentored. Anyone who decided to take advantage of the opportunities to benefit from Harry's mentorship, grace, and generosity is a better person today. I'd like to believe that Harry is in Heaven with his restored young body pumping iron with Zabo, Arlen, Tom, and Rudy. Harry was blessed with his soulmate Jerry whose love and caring added many years to his life. This world is a better place because of Harry Schwartz and seems much smaller without him. He is missed.

Howard Wasserman

November 26, 2023

In 1976, I responded to an advertisement seeking "Jack and Jills." I applied and landed a position as a Jack at Jack LaLanne Health Clubs. Through hard work, I ascended within the company, eventually becoming the Assistant Manager at the Rockville Center Club. It was during this time that I crossed paths with Harry Schwartz, working alongside him on a daily basis. Harry was a tough, no-nonsense individual who valued honesty above all else. He imparted invaluable life lessons, one of which stuck with me the most: people will treat you the way you let them treat you. Harry, you'll forever remain my hero. Your presence will be dearly missed. HW

Sheila Diaz

November 25, 2023

Rest in peace, my fearless leader, and fellow Bronx buddy one of my favorite stories was when we were all gathered for a managers meeting and you asked each one of us what we had done for the month when it was my turn. I got up and said 90,000 and change and you said, where do you think you are in a deli in the Bronx ...I have never forgotten the story and it still puts on the smile on my face ...may God bless you you will be missed
Love Sheila Diaz

Fran

November 22, 2023

For years, I had the privilege of knowing you. For years, I shall lament your lose. You were and are a God-send to all those who had the honor of knowing you. I´d give anything to hear just one more of your life stories or hear your music. I deeply, deeply miss you.
Fran

Ingrid Newkirk

November 21, 2023

Sending wishes for strength and happy memories to Jerry, who loved him and whom he loved so much. Harry understood the plight of animals and was a true friend to them and to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals´ work to help relieve suffering. He will be deeply missed.

Bill Higginbotham

November 21, 2023

I had the pleasure of knowing Uncle Harry for over twenty years. He lived the most interesting life of anyone I´ve ever known. Also he did so much for so many. He had a big heart and family and friends meant so much to him. He will be greatly missed. RIP

James M

November 20, 2023

Uncle Harry was more than just an uncle he was a wonderful person and friend. Harry was a person full of life and knowledge. On occasion I would get to set down with him and we could talk for hours about cars old memories or just anything. It was a blessing to my family and many other families when Harry and Jerry came into our lives and he will surely be missed.
Love always.

Rick Cartee

November 18, 2023

Uncle Harry was more than an uncle to me. I loved and admired him so much. He was a kind generous man and did for me more than my own father did. I will miss our conversations and his sense of humor every time we talked. Even though I would tell him I loved him and appreciated all he did for me I hope he knew that I really meant it. Because of Uncle Harry my life has been made so much better. Uncle Harry was blessed in so many ways and he lived the life most of us can only dream of. But I was blessed to have known him and have such a wonderful person be a part of my life. There will never be another like him. He was one in a million and the kindness and generosity he showed was priceless. I love you Uncle Harry and I will miss you very much.

Clinton Millwood

November 17, 2023

Uncle Harry was truly an inspiration. As a young man, he was one of the most influential people in my life. He always encouraged me to pursue education, stay career and family focused, and give back when I could. He was an ideal example of determination and hard work. He had such a breadth of knowledge from life experiences, that I could always go to him for advice. He was a blessing to our family in more ways than I can put into words and will be truly missed.

Jeremy

November 17, 2023

What can I say about my uncle Harry except he was more like a grandfather to me I always felt closer to him than uncle he's done more for me than I could ever say along with Aunt Jerry im going to miss him more than I can express I didn't get to see him or speak with him nearly enough over the last years and I'm brokenhearted I didn't get to say goodbye but like he always did he knows how much I love him respected him and that his opinion on things meant more to me than all but my mother and one other he made sure I went to better schools as I got older and always made sure we had whatever we might need for any sport or occasion along with aunt Jerry I should have done better to see and speak to him more and ill always regret that but never a day will go by I don't think fondly of my loving Uncle Harry.

Danielle McKlveen

November 16, 2023

My Uncle Harry was part of my life since I was a 7-year-old little girl. I am now 37 years old. 30 years was not enough time to learn everything I wanted to learn from my Uncle. He taught me grit, hard work, honesty, love, and patience. My parents Howard and Cathy Wasserman worked for Uncle Harry in the gym business back in the 1980s. When we moved to Georgia when I was 7 we connected with them and our relationship began. I got the honor to spend nearly every day with him his past month on this earth and it will be the best gift I could have received. I miss you, my Uncle, you are holding a special place in our family's life forever. As my parents say, he was the best of the best! Love you!

Theresa Brown

November 16, 2023

Harry Schwartz lived a grand life and was the most extraordinary man that I have ever known. Through 2 marriages, mine and his, we became family. He was my brother-in-law. Over the years we had many talks about life. Harry was quite funny and always had a wealth of stories and advice. He made me laugh and he made me cry. Harry was beyond generous in numerous ways with family, friends, and charities. I cannot fathom the number of people that have lived richer, fuller lives because of him. Any attempt with my words to pay tribute to Harry fall short and are shallow. They would be a great disservice to Harry. I was blessed to have known him and only hope that he knew how much he mattered in this world. The hole he left can never be filled. Harry ~ I salute you. Family and friends ~ I extend my prayers and condolences. And to his most beautiful, passionately loving and deeply devoted wife, Jerry, my heart goes out to you.
With much love and affection ~
Theresa Brown (Tee)

Patricia Healey

November 15, 2023

Mr Harry a very special man. I've only had the privilege to know him for a little under a year now but feels like I've known him for years. That smile he had as he told you a story about a memorable part of his life. It was very special to listen to and enjoy that memory with him. Not a day goes by I don't think he will take his morning walk and tell us a story. You are definitely missed Mr Harry and loved. Thank you for all that you shared.
Patty

JERRY BROWN SCHWARTZ

November 14, 2023

you know how longed I have loved you you know I love you still I would have saved faced a lonely life without you. if when I first saw you I didn't know your name but it didn't matter I loved you just the same I will love you forever love you with all my heart. love you when we are together or when we are apart. Harry and my song to each other. Broken hearted. Miss your voice and your face. each Morning. JERRY

Kevin Pate

November 14, 2023

I was very sad to hear of Harry's passing. I just heard yesterday.
I feel very honored to have known Harry for around 30 years. I did Pest Control on his houses but I considered him a friend not just a client. He will be very much missed.
I also feel honored to have meet some of the family. And to the family I am sorry for your loss. I am praying for your peace, comfort, strength and direction during this difficult time.

Steve Wallace

November 13, 2023

Uncle Harry was a very loving and carrying person that was always a pleasure to have conversations with over a wide variety of topics. He could talk about anything that you wanted to discuss with him. I always enjoyed the conversations that we had concerning cars because he truly enjoyed his cars. I will always remember him for his kindness and the generosity he showed to others. Uncle Harry you are truly loved and missed.

Starr Wallace

November 13, 2023

I have so many fond memories of visiting with Uncle Harry and Aunt Jerry as a kid. I wish I could have spent more time with him as I got older. He has done so much for our family and blessed us all. He will be greatly missed! Three cheers for an amazing man!!

Carla M.

November 13, 2023

Uncle Harry was one of a kind with such a personality. It would be hard to believe that anyone who ever met him was not enriched in some special way, be friendship, business, life coach, health and fitness, just an interesting conversation or his generosity. He was never short for words and always told you what he thought. He was a special man indeed. My family always enjoyed hearing his stories as a boy growing up, stories of his friends from years ago and how much he enjoyed being a part of our family. My family has been blessed in countless ways for Uncle Harry choosing to share his life with us. No elbow tap now, this here is a true, short tree stump, big Brown Hug! Much, Much Love and Appreciation,

Brad Bailey

November 13, 2023

Simply put, what an amazing man Harry was. I´ve only known Harry for a dozen or so years as I´m married his great niece, but in short time, it was certainly a privilege to get to know Harry. I remember visiting him and he would always have business advice for me (and, only fitting, workout advice). You will be missed. With love, Brad

Mike & Nancy Wallace

November 13, 2023

No words can describe what Uncle Harry meant to our family. His generosity was enormous, his care & concern for our well being and health was infectious and his sense of morals & integrity were remarkable. It was always a good time spent in his company. I will always remember and admire his great love for Jerry - how he looked at her and how if she was away for more than 15 minutes he had to call and see if she was okay. He always treated everyone with dignity and respect, and never expected more than a thank you in return. He was a mighty presence and will, for sure, be greatly missed. We were blessed to have him in our lives and look forward to getting together once again in Paradise.

Becky Higginbotham

November 13, 2023

How to describe this amazing man, caring,loving,kind,generous and funny. Uncle Harry affected my life in so many ways. He will live in my heart until my last days on this earth. I´m so thankful that I was given the opportunity to spend so much time with him over the last 2 years. He has to so generous with our entire family and expected nothing in return. He will be so greatly missed. One more thing Uncle Harry I Love you more

Becky Higginbotham

November 13, 2023

I can´t begin to say how much Uncle Harry affected my life. He was one of the most amazing people I have ever known. Caring, kind, giving and very loving. He touched everyone´s life in our family and never expected anything in return. Uncle Harry you will live in my heart until my last day on this earth. I hope I can be half as good a person as you. By the way I Love You More

Patrick Healey

November 13, 2023

I meet Harry in 2007. Harry became a client of mine. I did a lot of work on his house in Highlands North Carolina. I was able to earn his trust in my ability to do the work on his property and allowed me to remodel the house he owned for his guests. He´s taught me a lot on what and how people should be treated. He became a very good friend . We developed a friendship only him and I can understand and cherish. I miss him every day and will always remember his discipline and love for me . I love that man like no other . He treated me like his son . I love and cherish him and his lovely wife Jerry . Also known as Miss Jerry . Just know Harry I will be here for her always and remember you forever. Thank you for everything and your friendship.

Sarah Bailey

November 13, 2023

I will never have the words to describe my love and appreciation for my Uncle Harry. Someone who always wanted to give someone a chance and who spent his life making others peoples lives better. He will live in my heart forever.

Colleen Cartee

November 11, 2023

What can I say about this man who we welcomed into our southern family so many years ago. He changed our lives for the better in so many ways. We love him, and he will be forever in our hearts. On behalf of the entire Brown family thank you, Harry.

Colleen Cartee

Mike & Nancy Wallace

Planted Trees

lynn ward

November 10, 2023

Epitome of what is a man. We haven't lost him because of what he taught us and those things we will carry in our hearts. I'll always love Harry Schwartz.

Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results