"I WILL As long as I can I will look at this world for the both of us. As long as I can I will sing with the birds, I will laugh with the flowers, I will pray to the stars for both of us. ~ Author Unknown Even when there are simply no words..... we struggle to find them. These are the best I can do, and they are not even mine! Thoughts shall remain with you and your loved ones. Unforgettable, each and every one of you. Susan T. Clerk "
In loving memory of
Bill Prate
September 21, 1961 - September 29, 2022
Bill was born September 21, 1961, to Jerry and Kit Prate in Phoenix, Arizona and eventually moved to Wisconsin where he spent most of his childhood; growing up with his three siblings, Bob, Jeanne, and Chip.
After turning 17 and following the example of his Uncle Leonard Wiesbrock, he joined the US Army. He met his life partner and wife, Bobbie Hinson in 1981 while stationed in North Carolina, and they were blessed with two children, William and Josephine.
Bill was a dedicated worker who honorably served his country for 20 years in the US Army, spent over 10 years supporting our troops in Afghanistan as a government contractor overseas and eventually returned stateside to work as a Project Manager; and to watch his granddaughters grow up. While he held many titles, ranks and designations, his favorite was "Papa", at which he excelled.
Bill was predeceased by his father, Jerry Prate, Sr, his brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Kathie Prate and his daughter, Josephine Prate. He is survived by his wife, Bobbie Prate, his son and daughter-in-law, William and Shannon Prate, his two granddaughters, Kayla and Jessica, his mother, Kit Prate, and his brother and sister, Jerry (Chip) Prate and Jeanne Dagley.
Celebration of life will be held at Choice Cremation, 7398 University Ave, Fridley MN 55432 on Friday October 7, 2022, from 4:00- 6:30 PM
Tributes
"Bill was an amazing friend, he was funny, smart and he always willing to help. We are lucky to have met him and will always treasure the time we spent together. We will miss him greatly and he will always have a special place in our hearts. Fly high beautiful friend ? we love you- Eric, Bella, Oso and Ale "
"To the Prate family, we are so sorry for your loss. Bill was the best neighbor anyone could have. He was a hard worker and took great care of his family. He was always smiling and telling jokes. He was always making us laugh. If you asked for help Bill was right there with a smile and a joke. We used to take turns clearing the snow off each other's driveways. Bill was such a good man, giving the military 20 years of his life. Then working in Afghanistan. Thank you Bill for your service. We love you, Bobbi, and will always be here for you. The St Hilaire family"