Ex-Councilman, BOE Member Ilan Plawker Dead at 78

Former Englewood Cliffs councilman and school board president Ilan Plawker died of lymphoma at the age of 78 on Thursday, according to his obituary.

Plawker, born in Israel and a Columbia University graduate, was a member of the Englewood Cliffs Board of Education for 15 years, serving as board president five times. He also served 17 years on the borough council, resigning in February due to failing health. 

Plawker built small businesses in design display and marketing, also founding ConnectOne Bank.

The Korean War veteran was appointed by former Gov. John Corzine as a member of the State Board of Education in 2009 and was the board vice president at the time of his passing.

"When you talk about people in New Jersey who are wholly committed to making sure that every child receives a high-quality education, Ilan Plawker would surely be at the top of that list," State Education Commissioner Chris Cerf said in a statement Monday. 

Plawker leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Terry; sons Adam, Marc and Roger; his sister Barbara Miller; and seven grandchildren.

"Ilan will be remembered by all those who knew him for his integrity, independence, outspokenness, and eternal optimism," his obituary reads. "He will be remembered by his family for his selflessness and unconditional love and support."

Services were held Sunday at Gutterman and Musicant Jewish Funeral Home in Hackensack. Donations in Plawker's honor can be made to John Theurer Cancer Center, 360 Essex Street, Suite 301, Hackensack, NJ 07601.