Harry Brantz, age 85, passed away at Catskill Regional Medical Center on July 26 2009 after a long illness.  Harry was born in New York City. He worked in a printing shop for 46 years in Woodbourne, NY and Mt. Vernon, NY. For the past twenty five years Harry spent his time as an advocate for all people, especially those with mental illness. His strong belief in recovery, self empowerment, peer run services and respect and dignity for the mentally ill was an inspiration to all. He also fought hard to assure that individuals with mental illness had a voice and vote on committees and boards that made decisions about services for the mentally ill. He had a particular interest in individuals who suffered from both mental illness and substance abuse and worked hard to create self help groups in that area. He went to Albany on many occasions to lobby and was on a first name basis with state and county legislators. Harry was also extremely civic minded and attended almost every county and Village of Monticello Board meeting for many years. He made his opinions known and was not afraid to stand up for what he felt was right.  In addition he was long time loyal member of the Elks Club in Monticello.
Harry was a founding member of Stepping Stones and a member of the Sullivan County Community Services Board as well as both the Adult Mental Health Committee and Children and Youth Task Force.  He gave much of his time to these programs and boards as well as to his advocacy role in local governance.
Harry is survived by his sisters Rose Rubnitz and Beth Atkins and one nephew, Alfred. He is also survived by his many friends at Stepping Stones and Rehabilitation Support Services. A special thanks goes to the staff at the Adult Care Center for the wonderful care they gave to Harry at the end of his life. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Friends & Advocates for Mental Health, 14 Pelton Street, Monticello, NY 12701.
Funeral services for Harry will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at 3:00pm at the Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home 388 Broadway, Monticello with Rabbi Chanowicz officiating. Burial will follow in the Harris Cemetery. For further service details please visit www.josephngarlickfuneralhome.com