Ernst K. Edelmann

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 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.