David Charles Pratt, 98, passed away from natural causes on November 6, 2023, at the Chelsea Retirement Community, in Chelsea, Michigan. David was born on December 17, 1924, in Washington, D.C. to Ray and Frieda Pratt.
David attended school in Washington, D.C., until he was drafted into the Army Air Corps in 1941 where he served his country until the end of WWII. Taking advantage of the special training and special skills set that David developed in the Army Air Corps, he moved to Alaska in 1977 to participate in and to work on the engineering marvel of the times---the Alaska Pipeline. He relocated in 2017 to Chelsea, Michigan to be close to his family.
David was an esteemed member of the Masonic Lodge for over 70 years. He achieved the status of a 33rd degree Mason. He was a member of 3 separate Masonic Lodges. One was in Maryland and two were in Alaska. David was also a proud Shriner for many decades.
David was married to June Brown for 16 years, and to Alba Hicks for 40 years. Both preceded him in death. David and June had two sons who survive. Bruce Randolph Pratt and wife Kathy Sue who reside in Chelsea, Michigan. Surviving as well is a granddaughter, Heather Renee Bowers, and husband Jeremy, who reside in Brighton, Michigan with David’s great-grandsons, Max and Sammy. David’s second son, Gary Robert Pratt and wife, Mary Robin Pratt who also survive, reside in Howell, Michigan. Also surviving is grandson, Travis Wesley Pratt and wife Donna Charlene Pratt who reside in Oxford, Michigan with David’s great-grandchildren, Chloe Mystic Pratt, Lilah Mary Pratt, and Wesley Robert Pratt. Another grandson, Hollis Wendall Hamm, preceded David in death.
David could often be seen proudly wearing his brown leather WWII flight jacket, and hat, until shortly before his death. David had an extensive knowledge of mechanics, aircraft engines and engines in general. He enjoyed observing and sharing in this interest with both sons in his later years—son Bruce as he built aircraft and son Gary as he built race cars.
David was a husband, father, 33rd degree Mason, WW II Veteran, and he knew the Lord. David lived a life of service. He is a “hero” to his friends, a “hero” to his family and a “hero” to his country.
A Masonic and Memorial Service to honor David’s life was held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, 10:30 a.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel at 805 W. Middle St., Chelsea, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in David’s name.
Click here to watch the Masonic service, slideshow, and memorial service for David Pratt
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