James "Jim" Prohaska

A cherished presence to those who knew him, Jim will be remembered for his steady devotion, faithful walk, warm easy-going manner, honest counsel, and kind-hearted way of treating people that always made them feel valued and appreciated.

On July 29, 1961, Jim married Nancy Lishawa. Together they shared 65 years of marriage. Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather-caring, loving, and consistently ready to help others. A strong Christian, he lived with faithfulness that shaped his relationships and the legacy he leaves behind.

Jim graduated from Indian Hill High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, and from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, carrying forward a lifelong sense of duty and integrity.

Over the years, Jim built a career marked by dedication and professionalism. He worked for several companies including Allstate, General Motors, Cooke Pontiac/Cross Motors, and culminated his career with NADA, where he worked for 30 years. While with National Automobile Dealers Association, he was an outstanding 20 group consultant, and many came to rely on him not only for his expertise, but for the thoughtful, principled way he shared it. Among the sentiments shared by those whose lives he touched were: "Jim changed my life, not only as a mentor but also as someone I aspired to be like." "He was a great man - taught me so much about business and life" "The best person I have ever worked with." "Jim was the true definition of a gentleman." “If a dent in the universe is measured by the number of people Jim inspired, then his dent would be as wide and deep as the Grand Canyon.”

Jim was also a loyal UofL sports fan, taking genuine joy in the teams and the community spirit.

Jim is survived by his wife, Nancy Prohaska; his daughter, Beth Willenbrock; his son, Jeff Prohaska (Julia); and his grandchildren, Lily, Jack, Nick, Nash, and Greyson. He was preceded in death by his father, John Prohaska; his mother, Florence Prohaska; his sister, Lois Burton; and his son-in-law, George Willenbrock.

Visitation will be held on August 13, 2026 from 4pm – 7pm at Arch L. Heady and Son at Westport Village, 7410 Westport Rd, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. The Funeral Service will be held immediately following the visitation. Jim will be laid to rest in a private service at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville.

Family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the charity of your choice in Jim’s name.