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Ian Pearl Obituary
Ian was born in New York City, and soon diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a neuromuscular disease. By 8 years old, Ian was confined to a motorized scooter and suffering from frequent pneumonia. The family relocated to Florida in 1980 for Ian to live in a warmer climate. With his health stabilized, Ian became the first mainstreamed student in Broward. He became a local celebrity from televised public service announcements and MDA telethons. Ian proudly served as president of his class at NSU University School, and was honored by the Miami Herald Silver Knight Committee for his community service.
Ian entered University of Miami in 1990 with plans for a public service career, cut short when he suffered respiratory failure and required a ventilator. Despite the significant restrictions of his life, Ian never gave up his dream of service. His goal from early childhood was to inspire others to create a more compassionate world. As a result of Ian's advocacy, the New York State legislature passed Ian's Law in 2010, a historic insurance reform law that protects vulnerable patients from losing life-sustaining benefits.
Ian enjoyed collecting antiques, watching movies and listening to music. He adored his friends, both those who visited regularly, and those he only recalled fondly from childhood.
But more than anything else, Ian loved his family: both the biological family who enveloped him in love and affection from the day he was born; and his extended family of caregivers who devoted themselves to his comfort and survival.
In honor of Ian's life of inspiration and compassion, the family suggests donations to K9s for Warriors, Broward County Humane Society, South Florida Wildlife Center, or any animal organization close to your heart.
A private service was held on July 9, 2020 at Levitt-Weinstein Memorial Chapel in Hollywood.
Memories and Condolences
for Ian Pearl
8 Entries
Susan Pearl
July 3, 2024
Susan Pearl
July 2, 2024
Susan Pearl
July 2, 2024
To Our Pearl of Wisdom:
The world changed forever on July 4th, 2020. The past 4 years still feel like a surreal, alternate universe, always awaiting your return. Your lifelong optimism was so contagious, and your unwavering strength so profound, that you convinced everyone around you that you were indestructible. Now, 4 years later, those of us who loved you most still struggle to accept your absence. Nonetheless, as another July 4th approaches, we remember how personally meaningful Independence Day always was for you, and how you enjoyed the national celebrations. So we will once again honor YOU and your remarkable life on this July 4th. And we will keep your unwavering optimism and profound strength alive in our own hearts as we navigate through another year of this surreal, alternate universe.
With love forever, your Mommy-O
Susan Tannenbaum
July 6, 2023
Sending love and condolences. Ian was exceptional. He will always be remembered fondly.
Susan Tannenbaum
July 6, 2021
I can´t believe you are gone. You will always be my special nephew.I miss you so much especially the many interesting historical facts and stories you told us when we visits you in Florida. Rest In Peace Ian we love you.
Tina Bullock
January 9, 2021
I hate to hear of his death. I took care of Ian as a nurse. He wa brilliant and inspiring.
Jen Goblisch
July 12, 2020
I went to HS with Ian, and he was, to say the least, an awesome guy. Loved by everyone because of who he was, not because of the illness he had. Ian changed minds and won over those who doubted him. I am proud to have known him. Sending love to his family and friends.
Susan T.
July 12, 2020
In loving memory of a remarkable and wonderful person. We miss you so.....
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Funeral services provided by:
Levitt-Weinstein Memorial Chapels1921 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, FL 33020
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