Obituary of Dan Prohaszka

Dan Prohaszka

January 19, 1949 – October 20, 2024

Dan passed away early Sunday, October 20^th, at University Hospital, after a complicated heart surgery, with his wife Barbara, and sister-in-law Bev at his side. His big heart finally gave out.

He is survived by a large and loving family.  Partners in every aspect of life, he was married to Barbara (McElroy) for 50 years.  He is survived by his sister Mary Townley, brothers Tim and Tom (Maria), sisters-in-law Bev McElroy, and Debbie Prohaszka.

Predeceased by his parents Peter and Betty Prohaszka, in- laws Rod and Fay McElroy, brothers-in-law, Scott McElroy (Lorraine), Ron Townley, brother Mickey (Janice), sister Cathy Cassidy (Curtis), and niece Andrea McCulloch (Dan).  He was a proud Uncle Dan of 14 nieces and nephews and 26 great nieces and nephews.  He didn’t always remember all their names or who they belonged to, but they were all loved.  He will also be greatly missed by many cousins and friends who are like family.

Dan was born in Strathroy, where he lived his whole life.  He came up through minor hockey, eventually playing Junior A in Chatham and Guelph.  He played Oldtimers until the blade broke off his skate and he hung them up.

Curling was always a big part of Dan’s life, starting in high school.  He returned to curling at the Ilderton Curling Club where he took over the ice making position from his father.  He was known for making the best curling ice in Southwestern Ontario.  He was head ice technician of the Ontario ice team for many years and assisted in 2 Grand Slams and a U.S. National.  He moved to Highland Curling Club, where he continued to make great ice, and it was from there he retired in 2012.

Dan and Barb travelled extensively with their best friends Dan and Sharon McMillan.  They had great adventures and wonderful memories.

Dan could fix just about everything and loved to fabricate tools and gadgets.  If it could be welded, he could fix it.  He was the lawn mower “go to” for everyone.

Barbara would like to thank Dr. Michael Chu and the surgical and CSICU team at University Hospital for their kindness and compassion.

Please consider a donation to Junior Curling at the curling club of your choice in Dan’s memory or to the charitable organization of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held at the Portuguese Canadian Club of Strathroy, 375 York St.,on Saturday November 9^th, 2024, from 1-4 p.m.  Words of Remembrance are taking place at 2:00 p.m. for anyone to share; if you should wish.  Please bring your best memories and stories to share.

Arrangements entrusted to DENNING'S of STRATHROY, 519-245-1023