William J.

Prater

William J Prater, 73, courageously fought his final battle and emerged victorious on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at the John J. Pershing VA Hospital in Poplar Bluff, MO.
William, son of the late John and Lucy (Manuel) Prater, was born January 25, 1936, in Floyd County, KY. At a very early age he moved to Packerton, IN, with his parents and siblings. A graduate of Sidney High School in Sidney, IN, William served in the United States Army and was a member of Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion and the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. For the past two years he has lived in Centerville, MO, with Diana, his beloved wife and friend of 14 years, and Eddie, his very dear stepson.
William enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and being in the great outdoors. He lived in numerous locations throughout his colorful life and touched the lives of many, many people—including several foster children. He cherished his entire family and loved them unconditionally. He was known as "William" to some and "Bill" to others. All knew him as strong and determined. His Cherokee ancestry was a major influence in the various roles he has filled throughout his lifetime. His Native American heritage had special meaning for him. His extensive life experiences were a valuable resource for many people. The stories he could tell were vast. Everyone enjoyed his storytelling. Bill will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Lucy (Manuel) Prater, one brother, Amon Prater and two sisters, Oma Jean (Prater) Bradley and Thelma (Prater) Compton. Survivors include: wife, Diana; one stepson, Eddie Justice; seven children, Michael Prater of Warsaw, IN; Kathy Prater of Warsaw, IN; Cpt. Steven Prater (wife, Pam) of Fort Leonard Wood, MO; Debbie Prater of Boise, ID; Pam Prater of Avilla, IN; Matthew Prater of Colville, WA; Cpt. Jacob Prater (wife, Emily) of Fort Sill, OK; and five brothers, Hebert Prater (wife, Cora) of Albion, IN; Mander E. Prater (wife, Janavee) of Roann, IN; Delmar Prater (wife, Elva Mae) of Claypool, IN; Wilbur Prater of Larwill, IN; John Prater (wife, Ruth) of Centerville, MO. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, numerous cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.


Funeral Service: Friday, January 15, 2010. Visitation: 10:00 A.M. Service: 1:00 P.M. McSpadden Funeral Home, Ellington, Missouri. Interment: Corridon-Reynolds Memorial Park Cemetery. Officiated by: Bishop Paul Oesterreicher. In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be sent to: The Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Arrangements by McSpadden Funeral Home, Ellington, Missouri