Obituary of Harriet Ehrlich

With profound sorrow, we bid farewell to Harriet Ehrlich, 89, a remarkable soul and one of the last great Borscht Belt hotel matriarchs who died peacefully on February 29, 2024. Her effervescent presence illuminated the hearts of all who knew her.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Harriet found her home in South Fallsburg, New York, and Naples, Florida. She was the cherished daughter of May and Phil Schweid, carrying their legacy proudly as the steward of the esteemed Pines Hotel.

Harriet's life was a testament to love and family, flourishing through her four devoted children: Vicki Kossover (Andy), Stephen Ehrlich (Joann), Cliff Ehrlich (Mary), and Lisa Rapkin (Cory). Her lineage extended to thirteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

Harriet's love story blossomed with Jerome ("Jerry") Ehrlich, her beloved husband of sixty-two years, who she met while Jerry worked as a bellhop at the Pines.  Thereafter, they both attended Syracuse University together beginning a three-generation Orange legacy. Under Harriet's and Jerry's stewardship, the Pines Hotel grew into one of the great resorts of New York's Catskill Mountains. Elegant and always stylish, Harriet exuded warmth, making employees and guests feel welcome and cherished.

Beyond her role as a matriarch, Harriet found joy in simple pleasures. An avid bridge player, she became a Diamond Life Master. Harriet loved shopping and dining out. Her love for glamour and travel took her far and wide, always hand in hand with Jerry.

Harriet was quick to recognize kindness in others and showered praise upon those lucky folks who called her a friend. Her laughter, so distinctive and unforgettable, will forever echo in our hearts and memories.

As we gather to bid her farewell, let us celebrate a life lived with purpose, love, and grace. Harriets light may have dimmed, but her legacy will forever shine brightly.

A funeral service will be held at 11am on Sunday, March 3^rd, 2024 at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, 396 State Route 52, Woodbourne, New York. Rabbi Simcha will preside over the ceremony, followed by burial at South Fallsburg Hebrew Cemetery, Glen Wild, New York.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to AVOW Compassionate Care (AVOW Foundation, Inc.) at www.classy.org/give/544918/#!/donation/checkout; the Borscht Belt Museum at https://www.borschtbeltmuseum.org/donate or P.O. Box 45, Ellenville, N.Y. 12428; or a charity of your choice, in honor of Harriet's compassionate spirit and unwavering generosity.

Those who are not able to attend in person may view the funeral service HERE.

Due to unforeseen issues related to internet connection, the live stream may have dropped please view remaining part of service here.HERE

For further information, please contact Colonial Memorial Funeral Home at 845-434-7363 or visit www.colonialbryantfuneralhome.com.