Gary Stephen Laveman

We are heartbroken to announce the death of our husband and father, Gary Stephen Laveman, who passed away peacefully at the age of 84 in Livingston, New Jersey. Born on October 11, 1942, Gary grew up in the Bronx and in Queens. He was raised lovingly by his adored mother, Portia, and his father, Joseph, an immigrant from Bessarabia. His parents – who most valued family, love, Judaism, and education – shaped his magnificent life.

Gary excelled in the classroom from early on, which led him to study History and English at Queens College (the “Harvard” of the time, in Gary’s words) and receive a master’s degree from St. John’s University (teaching and administration). He quickly became a beloved high school Social Studies teacher at numerous high schools throughout New York City. His teaching tactics were legendary, especially his class on the Constitution and the 4th amendment where he would surprise the students with a real life, pre-planned “search and seizure” in the classroom. Gary went on to become a Vice Principal and Department Head, and finished his career in the classroom at Stuyvesant High School. Upon retiring from teaching, Gary embarked on a “second career” as a Hearing Officer for the NYC Board of Education where he arbitrated many cases (often referring to himself as the “judge”). Gary’s studies continued until the time of his passing – he was currently enrolled at Seton Hall University taking classes with college students. His love of learning never waned.

Beyond the classroom, Gary had a passion for many things including art, opera, music, theatre, food, travel, sports, and politics. He enjoyed all of these with great enthusiasm and excitement – he could talk about any of them for hours (and he did!). Of all his interests, however, Gary’s love of and devotion to Judaism stood out throughout his life. A member of Temple Hillel in North Woodmere for many years and Chabad of Short Hills for the past 5 years, Gary’s contributions to the Jewish community and the enrichment he received from them were tremendous. He attended Shabbos services regularly, joined for minyan, chanted Haftarahs, and celebrated holidays with family and friends with deep appreciation and joy. His “cantor” voice will be missed by all.

Although his successes and interests were many, Gary’s love for his family was unmatched. He met his beautiful wife Harriet while studying at Queens College and referred to marrying Harriet as the “best decision I ever made.” Their incredible love led to 60 years of marriage, four children, Michael (Robyn) and Rachel (Eric), and four grandchildren (Andrew, Jared, Ilana and Ryan). Gary was so proud to raise his children, celebrate their weddings, and watch their careers and families grow. He spent so much quality time with his grandchildren, and he especially loved shopping with them and talking to them about sports. The first thing he would ask when calling them at college was, “Did you find the library yet?” He spent hours analyzing Giants games with his grandchildren, often declaring, “It was the greatest ending I’ve ever seen!” He always made us laugh and gave us all endless support throughout the years. The lessons and values he taught us will remain forever in our hearts and he will be sorely missed.

A Funeral Service will be held at Bernheim-Apter-Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel, 68 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston, NJ 07039 on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 9am. The family will be receiving guests from 8:15am to 8:45am. The burial will follow at Mount Hebron Cemetery, 130-04 Horace Harding Expy, New York, NY 11367.