102-Year-Old George Strausman Still Working in Family Construction Business

George Strausman, a 102-year-old resident of Great Neck, New York, continues to balance a professional career in construction with a dedicated pursuit of artistic perfection in pottery.

Strausman maintains a rigorous schedule, working four days a week in his family’s construction business. According to reports from CBS News and NYC Today, he utilizes his days off to focus on pottery, a craft he has pursued for decades.

A Lifelong Pursuit of Craft

Strausman’s engagement with pottery is a long-term commitment. While he has been taking a pottery class for the past 10 years, some reports indicate he has been making pottery since the 1970s, honing his skills over five decades.

He currently spends his Fridays in a home studio, where he meticulously crafts ceramic pieces including bowls and vases. He also attends a pottery class through the Great Neck Free Union School District’s Community Education Program.

His instructor, Rosalie Dornstein, noted that Strausman has fully embraced the challenge of the craft and continues to strive for improvement at age 102.

The Quest for Perfection

Despite his extensive experience, Strausman remains dissatisfied with his current skill level. He describes the process as challenging to do well and views the activity as an interesting way to work with his hands.

This drive for perfection has resulted in a significant collection of unsuccessful attempts. His wife, Nancy, stated that he brings home a piece he dislikes every week. These rejects are stored by the hundreds in cardboard boxes and wood cabinets.

Maybe someday I’ll get good enough to be happy with it. I’m still not happy with what I do.

George Strausman

Strausman has expressed that he is always striving for perfection, noting that this pursuit is what keeps him going. He believes that creating a piece he considers truly beautiful would be a great feeling.

Balance of Work and Passion

The duality of Strausman’s life—continuing to work in a physical trade like construction while pursuing a meticulous art form—serves as an example of lifelong learning. His commitment to both his family business and his creative outlet provides him with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Strausman maintains that he is feeling good as he continues to navigate the demands of his professional life and the exacting standards of his artistic hobby.