Ronald "Ron" David Prater

Ronald David Prater, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 8, 2024 at the age of 69. He was born on Thursday, April 22, 1954, in St. Louis to Cecil David and the late Elizabeth Loretta (Sanders) Prater.

He dedicated his life to serving his country in the United States Army as a Helicopter mechanic, retiring after 22 years of service, he served in Operation “Desert Storm” in Iraq and more than 10 years in Korea during his career. Ronald received an award for 1000 flight hours over The Korean Demilitarized Zone. He was an active member of VFW Post 3777 in Festus.

Ronald was a “Jack-of-all Trades,” he was an avid Chevy Truck enthusiast, a member of the Leadbelt Cruisers, loved watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Throughout his life, he possessed a unique sense of humor that brought joy to those around him. His quick wit and natural ability to crack jokes made him the life of any gathering.

In addition to his mother, Ronald was preceded in death by his niece, Alissa (Geodecke) Blanton.

Ronald is survived by his beloved children, Michael (Jennifer) Prater, Rhonda (Scott) Lindahl, Anthony (Michelle) Prater; grandchildren, Tyler (Megan) Prater, Blain (Bailey) Prater, Kaitlynn (Chris) Prater, Allison Prater, Cameren Rineberg, Codey (Brittany) Rineberg, Caleb Silipo, Madison and Cameron Lindahl, Olivia, and Peyton Prater; great -grandchildren, Lucas Conway; siblings, Connie (Danny) Hassell and Sherry (Ken) Foerstel. All along with many nieces and nephews who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Memorial Visitation will be held at C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre, Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 9:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM. Reverend Kyle Castens officiating. Inurnment will take place at 2:00 PM with full Military Honors at North Lawn Cemetery Hwy 19 N. Salem, MO 65560. Memorials if desired can be made to the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.