John Michael Prugar

John M. Prugar, 77, of Watertown, left this world to be with his Lord and Savior on November 22nd, 2023. He died peacefully at his home under the care of his family and Hospice.  

John was born in Rome, NY to John P. and Mary (Ambroski) Prugar (both predeceased).  After graduating from SUNY Oswego in 1968, John began his teaching career in Rome, NY.  

He married Lee Ruble, the love of his life, on June 28th, 1969. They were happily married for 54 years.

After his marriage to Lee, he moved to Watertown. John taught 5th grade at Harold T. Wiley Intermediate School for 33 years. Mr. Prugar loved teaching and wanted to bring out the best in every one of his students. 

John was a man who liked people -- and they liked him back. He rarely met a person who did not become a lifelong friend. John always had a smile and cared deeply for others. He enjoyed helping people in need and embodied Christian love. His kindness brought joy to those around him.

John regularly attended the First United Methodist Church on Mullin Street in Watertown. He enjoyed helping others at church and in the community. 

John loved the outdoors and would spend many an afternoon nurturing his beautiful plants and flowers. He enjoyed the St. Lawrence River and watching the ships pass by.   John was a big Yankees, Giants, and Syracuse football and basketball fan.  He always looked forward to his yearly trips to North Myrtle Beach where he could often be found playing a mean game of mini-golf. John loved traveling and experiencing new things. 

John is survived by his wife Lee and two daughters, Heather (Joseph) Curatolo and Holly Prugar. He was so happy when his granddaughter Morgan Curatolo was born.  He loved his family so much and was always thinking of their happiness.  

He is also survived by his brother Joseph (Eileen) Prugar and two nieces Danielle Prugar and Evelyn Prugar of Long Island.  

There will be a celebration of life service in the spring at First United Methodist Church.

Arrangements were with Cleveland Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.clevelandfhinc.com.

If you would like to honor John's life please consider a gift to the blessing box at First United Methodist Church 236 Mullin Street, Watertown NY or the Watertown Urban Mission food pantry. You can donate to the food pantry online at www.watertownurbanmission.org

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.