L. MICHAEL PROLER
1944-2018
L. Michael Proler was born on February 9, 1944 to mother, Anne Proler Robbins and father Jack Louis Proler. Michael was a devoted brother, husband, father, grandfather and last but not least, a brilliant businessman. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Isaac Baer (I.B.) Proler. Michael was also the maternal grandson of the late Reb Alter Greenfield.
He was a second generation Proler to join the family business J.L.PROLER IRON & STEEL CO established in 1920’s, which he devoted his life Michael presided over the operations of the company for almost fifty years. His career with the company ran for over sixty-five years.
One of his life’s greatest joys was marrying his soulmate, Millie Jean Proler, in January 2009, whom “He always stated he waited for her, over 25 years”. They had a special bond and enjoyed the years gifted them. He was proud of the memorable moments they spent together.
Michael always had a way of looking for the good in a person or situation. If he didn’t agree with you, he had a gift of understanding why you felt that way and respected your opinion. Never one to complain, he preferred to care for others than vice versa. It was the simple things in life that made him happy – a good meal, a pretty sunset, shared laughter, and the love of his dear wife and close family and friends. He loved turning a scrap yard into a beautiful property. His kindness to the surrounding community was a joy he never overlooked and always took pride in being a part of that community. He was an avid reader, especially of history and politics. He maintained a video library of movies from the earliest days of the industry to present. He was a kind and compassionate man not just in his words but with his actions as well. Millie Jean was the light of his life and gave him the strength, determination, and courage to fight for unjustified terrors within the world up to his death on October 31, 2018. He always believed in the statement, “When you get into this business, the business gets into you.” Taking care of families was something he took pride in and was honored to do.
He is survived by his loving dear wife, Millie Jean Proler, Brother - Meyer Proler, SonDemond Brown, Daughters-Monique Washington, Xermara Kinder, Chanel Lockhart Proler, and Markisha Payne, 12 Grandchildren - Godson - Marshall Segal. He was acting father and grandfather to so many .
The family would like to thank all of his “work family” at J.L. Proler Iron and Steel. Especially Sam and Charlene Segal. Sam was not just his business partner and best friend, but more like a father in his formative years and his brother later in life. Another special friend, Willie Faye Hampton was dear to Michael. Wanting to spend more time with his family, he transferred ownership of the J.L. Proler Company to his longtime partner and friend Steven H. Segal. Amazingly, as was one of his most sincere wishes, the business is now in the hands of the fifth generation.
Not only was Michael a man of action, he was a man of great pride and decency. His understanding and compassion is a wonderful legacy he will leave with us forever.