The Committee mourns the loss of Ernie Weisman, a longtime member and past president, who passed away at age 53 on February 3, 2010. Born and raised in Takoma Park, Ernie was widely known as a generous friend and handyman who gladly tackled any project, big or small. He was a loving and devoted family man who maintained close ties with his parents and siblings while raising his three children with his wife, Mary Anne. His kids were the butt of many jokes, like when he swiped food from their plates and bested them at water fights, but he revealed his softer side when he supplied snacks and chocolate milk after school and gently guided them through life’s twists and turns. What we will remember most, however, was his optimism and kindness, and his innate way of relating to people based on their character rather than their appearance.

David Weisman, Ernie’s father and a past member of this Committee, passed away suddenly on May 27, 2010 at 76 years of age. A long-time Takoma Park resident, David served on the City Council from 1978 to 1982. He was active in many community causes including Saving the Small Schools and the Block 69 campaign during which he and two of his sons were arrested at a sit-in protest that aimed to prevent demolition of Victorian houses. David worked as a purchasing manager for two large construction companies and in computer personnel placement. For leisure, he enjoyed flying model airplanes, a hobby he acquired as a teenager. He is survived by his wife, Morelyn, three adult children, and nine grandchildren.