Ernest A. “Ernie” Prosperini, Sr., 97, of Springfield, IL, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born on October 10, 1928, in Springfield, the son of Armando and Tesolina (Verna) Prosperini. He married Delores Foltz on October 5, 1946, and she preceded him in death on February 22, 2015.
In addition to his wife, Delores, he was also preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Virginia “Ginny” Broccardo; three brothers, Manfred “Mel”, Tony and Joseph Prosperini; an infant sister and one sister, Clementine Gunsett.
Ernie is survived by one son, Ernest A. (Carol) Prosperini, Jr. of Springfield, IL; one son in law, Ronald Broccardo of Springfield; four grandchildren, Lisa (John) Powell, Michelle (Adam) Harden, Ron (Monica) Broccardo, and Nikkie (Mark) Stefan; nine great-grandchildren, Ryan (Cori) Cleaver, Evan Powell, Emilee Powell, Adam Harden, Eden Harden, Evie Harden, Alaina Broccardo, Braden Broccardo, and Henry Stefan; four great-great grandchildren, Landon Elder-Cleaver, Rylee Cleaver, Kai Schulze, and Cayden Schulze. Several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive him.
Ernie was employed with Prairie Farms Dairy for thirty years as a delivery driver. After retiring from Prairie Farms, he worked for seven years at Horrace Mann in the maintenance division.
He was a member of St. Agnes Church, Riverton Knights of Columbus, AARP and Polk of A Springfield.
Ernie enjoyed gardening, watching the birds and traveling around the world with his beloved wife, Delores.
Visitation: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Funeral Service: 12:00 pm, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Rev. Troy Niemerg officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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