Gerald Wayne Prater

     Gerald Wayne Prater 77, of Ross County residing in Florida, died at 11:55 am Thursday April 1, 2021 at Adena Regional Medical Center unexpectedly.

     He was born Aril 16, 1943 in Salyersville Ky, Magoffin County to the late Walter R. Prater and Alberta May-Prater.  On May 14, 1966 he married Janice R. Hahn who survives.

     Surviving are children, Cami L. (Philip) Norpoth of Circleville, Tammy R. Prater of Winchester, KY, and Mechelle L. (Kevin) Lutsko of Chillicothe. Grandchildren, Garek V. Norpoth, Cydney C. Norpoth, Olivia R McCoy, Maya M McCoy, Madison L Spellman, Mavrick V Spellman, and Riley J Lutsko. Brothers, Darius (Rita) Prater and Randy Prater. Uncles, Lake (Kathy) Prater and Sam Wireman. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was preceded in death by sister, Conda Prater, and a nephew, Walter Ault.

     Gerald was an IBEW Electrician for Local 183/369 which he worked for 37 years and was fortunate to travel around the USA to spend summers in many states camping with his wife, children, and many cousins. Gerald retired in 2005.  In addition to being a member of the Electric Union, he was also a member of I.O.O.F. Lodge in Richmond Dale, Scioto Lodge#6 F&AM, the Aladdin Temple Shrine of Grove City, the Richmond Dale Baptist Church and was also a Kentucky Colonel.  Gerald served in the United States Airforce during the Vietnam War stationed in Seville, Spain and Izmir, Turkey.  He and Jan had a lifelong dream of owning a home in Florida where they could retire in the Florida sun. In 2010 they purchased a home in North Port, Florida and have spent the last 10 years enjoying the company of their wonderful neighbors, family, and friends.  Gerald loved finding treasures at consignment shops as they rented a storage locker even before purchasing a home.  Gerald and Jan spent a lot of time at Venice Beach, listening to the Beach Boys while watching beach goers.  While Gerald loved the Florida sun he most loved spending time with his beloved family and friends.  In the winter, Gerald enjoyed a Kentucky family tradition of making Cream Pulled Taffy, we are happy to say that tradition was passed down from Gerald to many of his grandchildren. Gerald will be missed by many, but especially by his wife and children. 

     A Masonic Service will be held 1 p.m. Monday, April 5, 2021 followed by his funeral service with Brad Jones officiating.  Burial will follow in Little Mound Cemetery where military graveside rites will be conducted by the Ross County Veterans Honor Guard.  Friend may call at the WARE FUNERAL HOME from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the services on Monday. 

     You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com 

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