Anna Friedman Prager, who passed away recently, is remembered by the House with deep sadness. She was the devoted wife of Jan Prager for 64 years and a cherished mother of two children. Born on January 6, 1936, in Chmielnik, Poland, Anna faced a challenging childhood, including expulsion from her home and survival in a Siberian labor camp during World War II. Despite these hardships, she emerged as an inspirational figure and a "woman on the go." After migrating through several countries, she and her family eventually settled in the United States in the 1960s.
Anna Prager's contributions to her adopted state were significant. She worked as a high school chemistry teacher, served on various boards including the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, and was involved in town planning and council roles in South Kingstown. She also played a key role in creating affordable housing as head of the Washington County Regional Planning Council. Beyond her professional achievements, Anna was recognized for her community service, receiving "The Outstanding American by Choice Award" and authoring a memoir of her Holocaust experiences. Her greatest joy came from her family, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The House extends its condolences to Anna's family and friends, recognizing her as a woman of substance and character, and directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to her family.