Ernst Prosser

PROSSER, Ernst “Ernie”, 80, of Midlothian, died January 2, 2013. Born on June 2, 1932 in the German speaking Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia, his family had to leave their hometown after WWII and settled in Bavaria. After the death of his mother he lived in a Catholic orphanage while working as an apprentice. He immigrated to New York City in 1960 where he found work as a carpenter. There, he met the love of his life on a blind date and on October 20, 1962 he married Helga Schmidt, also from Germany. The two spent many happy years in New York, where they raised two beautiful daughters, Ingrid and Andrea. Both of their daughters became physicians which made them indescribably proud. Well versed in current events and international affairs, Ernst also enjoyed making beautiful furniture in his basement and was always willing to help friends with home repair jobs. Additionally, he worked as a carpenter for many years in the New York City School System. He was an avid New York sports fan and loyal supporter of his Jets, even after moving to Midlothian, which created a small family rivalry with his son-in-law Dave, a Giants fan. Known as “Opa” to his two grandchildren, Brie and Belle, Ernst loved spending time with them, particularly at the beach, where he spent many a relaxing day with his reel. Remembered by all who met him as one of the friendliest and sweetest people they had met, his jolly greeting of “What’s cookin’?” will never be forgotten, nor will his inquisitive spirit or love of all German traditions. Characteristically, Ernst confronted his diagnosis of cancer with stoicism and was grateful for the excellent medical care he received during his illness. However, he most benefitted from the loving, attentive care he received from his wife. In Ernie’s honor, next time you raise a beer stein say “Prost!” for him. He will always be remembered and loved by those who knew him. Ernst is survived by his wife of 50 years, Helga Prosser; daughters, Ingrid and Andrea; son-in-law, Dr. David Cifu; granddaughters, Gabriella and Isabelle Cifu; sister-in-law, Dr. Marianne Prosser-Lotz ; niece, Dr. Franziska Prosser; cousins in Germany and many friends. A service in celebration and memory of his life will be held 4 p.m. Saturday at the Huguenot Chapel of Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Road. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Ernst and Helga Prosser Geriatric Rehabilitation Endowment: http://www.pmr.vcu.edu/Department/endowments/Prosser.aspx or you may mail donations to:

Rebecca Roddy, Department of PM&R, 1223 East Marshall Street, Richmond, Va. 23298-0677, Attn: Prosser Geriatric Rehabilitation Endowment Note: All donations are fully tax deductible and will be matched 1:1 by the Department. Online condolences to WoodyFuneralHome.com.