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Great Neck Today
By the People, for the People
102-Year-Old Keeps Balancing Construction Work and Pottery Passion
George Strausman has maintained a rigorous schedule, working four days a week in his family's construction business while pursuing his lifelong artistic pursuit of pottery.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:07am
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At 102 years old, George Strausman's lifelong dedication to both construction work and pottery exemplifies the pursuit of creative fulfillment at any age.Great Neck TodayGeorge 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, while utilizing his days off to focus on pottery, a craft he has pursued for decades.
Why it matters
Strausman's story serves as an inspiring example of lifelong learning and the ability to maintain a balance between professional work and personal passions, even at an advanced age. His commitment to both his family business and his creative outlet provides him with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
The details
Strausman has been taking a pottery class for the past 10 years, but 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. Despite his extensive experience, Strausman remains dissatisfied with his current skill level and is always striving for perfection, noting that this pursuit is what keeps him going.
- Strausman has been taking a pottery class for the past 10 years.
- Strausman has been making pottery since the 1970s.
The players
George Strausman
A 102-year-old resident of Great Neck, New York, who continues to balance a professional career in construction with a dedicated pursuit of artistic perfection in pottery.
Nancy Strausman
George Strausman's wife, who stated that he brings home a piece he dislikes every week, which are stored by the hundreds in cardboard boxes and wood cabinets.
Rosalie Dornstein
Strausman's pottery instructor, who noted that he has fully embraced the challenge of the craft and continues to strive for improvement at age 102.
What they’re saying
“Maybe someday I'll get good enough to be happy with it. I'm still not happy with what I do.”
— George Strausman
The takeaway
Strausman's story demonstrates that it's never too late to pursue a lifelong passion, even while maintaining a demanding professional career. His dedication to both his family business and his artistic endeavors serves as an inspiration for others to find balance and fulfillment in their own lives.
