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Our community was stunned at the
passing of Stefan Prosky, a wonderful
husband, father, son, brother,
and friend. Stefan was curator for
the Cape May Film Festival for 20
years and an instructor for its film camp.
Stefan was also a professor of film and
animation, showcasing many of the films
from his students. That was the essence of
Stefan. Positive affirmations, building up, and
kindness. Stefan was a “family first” and gentle
man. His insights were fair and thoughtful.
The film fest selections were in such good
hands because of him. He also loved to examine
how things worked — beyond their engineering
to how they brought people together.
Explorer, mentor, film buff… here are
tributes to our “Tefman!”
Annie Mullock, who held the festival
together for many years, says, “Hearing the
name Stefan floods my mind with precious
memories of film camp, a place where, thanks
to Stefan, no level of creativity was too far and
no bad ideas existed. Stefan was a brilliant
The Movie Column
By arts columnist Tom Sims
teacher, a patient listener, and an encouraging
friend. Though his loss will be felt by the Cape
May Community and beyond, the impact he
made on our lives will remain strong.”
Dottie and Mal Knapp, volunteer leaders
for the festival, say, “We felt joy and enthusiasm
when we were with Stefan. His ideas and
help with the festival were invaluable.”
Veronica Scutaro, volunteer festival
leader, says, “Stefan’s interest in science and
the arts, his beautiful outgoing nature, and
quirky views of human beings made him the
best of companions and a wonderful friend.”
Gayle Stuhlhuth, Founder of Cape May’s
Classic American Tales, remembers Stefan as
“kind, gentle, and smart. I loved watching him
interact with the young filmmakers.”
Roy Steinberg, Artistic Director for Cape
May Stage says, “Stefan was such an important
part of the Cape May Film Festival - a
passionate film buff and a generous teacher.
My condolences to John and Andy. We are all
poorer for this loss.”
Mike Lavancer, a student turned teacher
for film camp, says, “Stefan seemed to revel in
the details that others would overlook. But he
knew, and he passed on that knowledge with
an infectious joy. He believed those intricacies
built on each other were what make
anything work. He saw the magic in the small
moments.”
Continue your journey, my good friend.
We will work to live out your kindness and
curiosity as best we can.
June 22, 2023 EXIT ZERO Page 37