Herb Cytryn

Big Indian-

Herb Cytryn, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, coach, and mentor, passed away peacefully of natural causes on May 16, 2025 in the sanctity of his workshop.  For more than 50 of his almost 91 years, Herb was a full-time resident of the Big Indian area, known affectionately by many as “Herby.” 

Born in Leipzig, Germany, Herb was the son of the late Herbert Tonjes and Ruth Cytryn. He leaves behind his wife, Enid Pardini Cytryn, and daughters Anya (Shawn) O'Connor and Tara (Ed) Lozano.  Herb's legacy continues through his grandchildren, Ronan, Nora, Josh, and Michael, as well as great-grandchildren, Channing, Oliver, Georgia and Felix.

Herb's life was a testament to resilience and triumph. As a teenager, he escaped from East Germany and was sponsored by his grandfather, Felix, a Holocaust survivor and engraver, to come to the United States where he made his new home in the NYC metropolitan area. He joined the US Army and served honorably in Korea, a gesture of gratitude to the country that had offered him a new beginning. Herb's dedication to learning English and immersing himself in American culture was unwavering, and his natural artistic talents flourished during his service years. After his military career, he embarked on a successful professional journey, becoming a world-class creative designer and graphic artist for prominent networks such as NBC, ABC, and later an art director at McGraw-Hill publishing. 

Herb was a competitive athlete starting with his love for soccer in Germany.  He played in the army and was recruited to play for Soccer Club Eintracht in Queens, winning the 1955 National Challenge Cup.  In later years he ran several marathons and completed the grueling Escarpment Trail Run, twice.  He picked up tennis and skiing, winning Fleischmanns tennis tournaments and Belleayre ski races.

After commuting to Manhattan via bus for 15 years, his retirement from McGraw-Hill afforded him the time for a new coaching career.  He became an instructor at Belleayre Ski Center and was a dedicated varsity coach at Onteora High School for over three decades with the Alpine Skiing, Tennis, Soccer, Football, and Track & Field Teams.  Herb's influence as a mentor and role model extended beyond the sports fields, touching the lives of countless students. He was celebrated for leading his teams to local victories, Section IX Titles, and NYS Championships. The respect and appreciation he earned from athletes, parents and district administrators alike was a reflection of his commitment to the community's youth. Even years after their graduation, former students would affectionately greet him as "Coach," a title he wore with pride and honor.

Herb's passion for nature and the outdoors was a central part of his life. An avid fisherman and hunter, he field trialed german wirehaired pointers, including a Westminster Kennel Club champion.  Herb and Enid managed a morgan horse breeding farm and competed in horse shows throughout New England.  A Master Falconer and certified wildlife rehabilitator, Herb shared his knowledge and love for animals through educational experiences for local schoolchildren. 

Always a mountain man, he and Enid camped in the Canadian Rockies on horseback, they toured Europe on a motorcycle, and he skied throughout the US and Switzerland.  He found solace in the beauty of the Catskill Mountains, surrounding himself with trees and the melodies of birdsong. His home, high on the mountaintop and nestled in nature's embrace, was a true sanctuary that provided tremendous creative inspiration.

His artistic talents spanned many mediums.  He sketched, painted and sculpted.  He made leather clothing embossed with custom illustrations.  He built homes and cedar furniture. He designed beautiful tattoos, carved bone handles for knives and feather jewelry.  In his final hours, Herb was crafting a wooden spoon for his beloved Enid. 

Herb was an extraordinary man who experienced an amazing life.  It was a beautiful mosaic of courage, creativity, and compassion. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, the art he created, and the natural world he so dearly loved.

His impact on the community was immeasurable, his patriotism was undeniable, and his larger-than-life presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

We will honor Herb’s memory and his lively spirit at West Kill Brewing in West Kill NY on July 2, 2025, 4-7pm.  Please bring your good memories, bright smiles, and a dish to share (cash bar).

The family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Department, 8 Firehouse Road, Big Indian, NY 12410.  You may share a special memory, photo, or condolence with the family on Herb's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Herb Cytryn, please visit our floral store.