Harold Bernard "Dick" Prosser died on January 3, 2021. He was 73. Born July 17, 1947 in Munich, Germany, son to the late Bernard "Bud" and Elisabeth (Bayerl) Prosser, Dick is survived by his children, Heather Prosser, Amanda Prosser Green and Christopher Prosser, loving girlfriend Marian Steel, his brother Michael Prosser, nieces Cammie Vail and Yvonne Salis, nephews Steven Gross and Hal Canady, grandsons Aayden and Rylee Green, special extended family, the Steels, Brad, Justin and Jennifer, Brady, Brennan, Trevor, as well as many loving and loyal friends. He never knew a stranger. His contagious laughter and caring nature were loved by all.
After graduating from Fairborn High School, Dick voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army, forgoing a college scholarship for track. After basic training at Fort Bragg, NC he entered Airborne (Jump) School at Fort Benning, GA. He earned his Paratrooper Wings and from that point on, it was Airborne All the Way. In June 1967, he was deployed to Vietnam.
As a Sky Soldier, 2d Battalion, 503d Infantry Regiment of the 173d Airborne Brigade, his tour of duty earned him numerous medals and badges including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/ Device, Parachute Badge, and Combat Infantryman’s Badge. He earned the rank of Sergeant for his efforts in some of the most dangerous battles including Dak To. His unit was recognized as one of the most heroic and valorous in the history of the United States Army, earning the Presidential Unit, Combat Service and the Meritorious Unit Citations.
Early retirement after a 30 year career with The Bell Systems allowed him to pursue other interests such as body building. He was involved in local contests and parades. His bench pressing record was three reps at 425 pounds! This passion led him to open a gym to help others achieve their fitness goals.
Dick also took great pride in his duties as Honor Guard Captain. He organized and participated in hundreds of local presentations, events and parades. He especially loved going to schools to present the colors for the kids. The kinship he shared at VFW Post 9927 provided him a great sense of fulfillment. Additionally, in 2016, Dick was a participant of Honor Flight. This was an incredibly moving experience for him.
While Dick’s commitment to service, country and honor was ever present, his most important source of joy and purpose was his family. His unwavering dedication and unconditional support, his boundless love were unfailing. He will always be our True Hero.
Burial of ashes will be at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 West Third Street, Dayton, Ohio 45428. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dick’s honor to The Wounded Warrior Project.
Professional arrangements entrusted to W.E. Lusain Funeral Home.
