Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Ernst Edelmann Obituary
Elmira - Ernst K. Edelmann a.k.a "Ernie", passed away peacefully on Friday, September 28, 2018 at St. Joseph's Hospital to join his beloved wife Irmgard a.k.a. "Immi" and their German Shepherd dog, Tasso, to his next journey.
Ernie lived the "American Dream", surviving a war torn youth in Germany before he and his Immi won a $10,000 lottery and decided to change their lives (and the lives of their young sons Karl and Peter). With keen intelligence and stubborn determination they "took the boat" to America and journeyed to their dream. His friend and soccer sponsor, Adi Dressler said "Ernie, if you are going to America why not sell my shoe there?" to which Ernie said "Adi, we just lost the war to America, they will not buy your shoe" (Adidas). Instead, he and Immi started at a textile company, oiling sewing machines. Ernie quickly rose to become CFO of the company within a few years. Thereafter, he joined Arnot Reality and became its president for decades. He was also President of the Elmira Rotary Club, President of the Elmira Country Club, ending with his last business card with the occupation, "Expert!" His sense of humor never left him.
A dream was to build a shopping center, and after downtown Elmira said no thank you, he and his wife conceived of and built the Arnot Mall which brought the company and his family to prominence.
He taught us many things: love life, dream, never give up and make your dreams into reality. This is as true today as it was in his youth. His physical passions of soccer, tennis and dancing and his mental skills of math and chess (actually beating a grandmaster as an amateur player), stand out. After 91 years, time won out over a life well lived. Ernie is survived by his youngest brother Werner, his two boys Karl and Peter with their families, a few friends, many memories and some great accomplishments and failures. A very special thank you goes to his daughter-in-law, Paula, who cared for him like a true family member.
Enjoy your next boat ride, Ernie.
As per Ernie's wishes there will be no visitation or services. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Ernie's tribute wall may be signed at www.olthof.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ernst Edelmann
Sponsored by The Star-Gazette.
6 Entries
patrick barrett
August 27, 2025
I knew Ernie as long time tenant in Arnot Nall. I wish I had bad a Chance to know him outside of business. It sounded as if he had N interesting life. My parents were immigrants from Ireland and would have loved talking about that. He was a very good businessman. He gave me the chance to build my stores and also had great advise and support RIP Ernie.
Mark Stemerman
October 10, 2018
To Karl, Peter and family my condolences. I remember your dad as a kind man. I know he will be greatly missed.
Elizabeth Biroscak
October 9, 2018
I am sure he, Mrs. Edelmann and Kurt Klemme will be doing much catching up on their Cloud 9. I remember him well when I worked at Maxwell's and occasionally stopping to speak with each other at the Mall. A true gentleman. I wish the family peace as you move forward without his presence.
October 7, 2018
Offering my condolences. As you remember your love one, may Almighty God and your treasured memories bring you peace, comfort, and strength to endure. (Psalm 147:3)
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Liz
October 7, 2018
To the family and friends of Ernst Edelmann, please accept my sincere sympathies for the loss of someone you loved and cared for. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time and give you a hope for the future of seeing Mr.Ernst again. (Hosea 13:14) Just knowing there's a hope for the ones we loss in death can be so reassuring. My deepest condolences to the entire family.
Dick DuBois
October 1, 2018
So sorry to hear about Ernie's passing. For the last couple of years I picked him up weekly, when I was in town, to take him to Elmira Rotary Club meetings. He loved going to Rotary and seeing familiar faces, friends he has known for many years. Ernie served as President of the Elmira Rotary Club in the late 80's. He was always so happy to see me when I showed up on Tuesday mornings. We had great conversations going to and from meetings and he always wanted to know when the next time would be. He was a rock star at the Courtyard at Bethany. He was tall, handsome and knew how to dance! When I walked him through the halls all the women would make sure to say hello to him. I will greatly miss seeing him every week.
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in Ernst Edelmann's name
Memorial Events
for Ernst Edelmann
People and places connected with Ernst
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Ernst's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Ernst Edelmann's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
