Fr. William-Prospero-Obituary

Fr. William Prospero

Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

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DIED
September 8, 2014
LOCATION
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

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BECKER RITTER ELMBROOK FUNERAL HOME Obituary

Fr. William F. Prospero, S.J. was called to eternal life of September 8, 2014 at the age of 49. A native of Wauwatosa, he attended St. Jude?s Grade School, Marquette University High School, and Marquette University before entering the Society of Jesus in 1987. He studied humanities and philosophy at Creighton University, completed theology studies at Weston Jesuit School of Theology, and was ordained a priest in June 1998. He pronounced final vows as a Jesuit in 2007.

Will?s early ministry was at Red Cloud Indian School (Pine Ridge, S.D.) and the Sioux Spiritual Center (Planview, S.D.). Later, Will worked in Marquette University?s Campus Ministry (2000-2006), was pastor of St. Mary?s University Parish, (St. Pleasant MI 2006-2012), and served as spiritual director at Mount St. Mary?s Seminary (Emmitsburg, MD 2012-2013)

Taken by illness before his time, he walked the way of the cross alongside his Savior with patience and faithful hope in the resurrection. He is the beloved son of Caesar and Charlene Prospero, dear brother of Anthony (Holly) Prospero, Gregory (Florence) Prospero and Mary Clare (Joe) Dey. Further survived by his Jesuit Brothers, eight nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. He will be remembered for his love of the Church and her people, his love of friends and family. His generous spirit, special devotion to Our Lady, and humble stance of prayfulness before God and others.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2014 at The Church of Gesu (1145 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee) from 4:00 p.m. until the Mass of Christian burial at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wisconsin Province Jesuits, 3400 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53208

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Eternal rest grant unto him dear Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him and may him and may his soul through your mercy rest in peace.

The news of Will's death makes me very sad. I taught with Will out at Red Cloud. I'll never forget our common love of pick-up basketball games. We had some doozies. Together, we rarely lost two-on-two games, against Jesuits or otherwise. I remember defeating a couple of proud young Crusaders on the night of the Red Cloud prom we were chaperoning. We tried to discourage the encounter, but they insisted they could defeat us and wanted to prove it that night. So we snuck off, the four of us,...

As a long time neighbor and friend of the Prospero family, I watched Willy grow up into an outstanding man and priest. He was an inspiration to me and my family and to all the people he touched. With heavy heart, my family and I offer our deepest sympathy. God bless you, Dave Nicholson

My condolences to his family (especially his brother Greg) and to his community.

remembering Will in my prayers and at the altar. His zeal & enthusiasm are inspiring. His family & province are especially in my prayers at this time of loss

Prayers to you and your family. So sorry for your loss.

Dear Prospero Family, Our prayers are for you during this time of great loss. Will was such a wonderful man who touched the lives of all around him. I feel fortunate to have such have fond memories of him with his siblings growing up together in the neighborhood.

To the Prospero family- I remember singing for your son's ordination and first Mass at St. Jude's. My Dad served communion to Father Will's parents at daily Mass. I do did belong to St. Jude. May God Bless All of You and Give you great memories.

Marge Melton

May the peace that passes understanding be given to this family through Christ our Lord.