William C. Prather, 74, of Rockford Passed away December 23, 2021. He was deeply dedicated to his family, his country, his community, and the environment. Bill was born on January 13, 1947 in Rockford to Gordon and Bertha Prather. He graduated from West High school, and went on to serve his country in the United States Navy. After his time in the service Bill went on to work for the Local 498 Rockford Iron Worker Union for over 40 years. Bill knew the value of work ethic, and service to one’s community. He regularly volunteered for Habitat for Humanity. He loved and enjoyed nature. Bill would spend his time with his family on the lake, fishing, canoeing, or sailing. He was also an avid reader. He loved to spend quality time with those he loved in the great outdoors. He was known as Mr. Fix it, as he was very mechanically inclined as well as willing to help his family or friends. He will be deeply missed.
He leaves to cherish his memory; his daughter Coral (Travis), brothers; Joel, Dick, and Jack, sisters; Veena and Kim Arnold, as well as his grandchildren; Paul, Ethan, Alexis, and Haily. He is also survived by great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as extended family members whom he loved dearly.
He is predeceased by his parents; Gordon and Bertha, as well as his sister Holly.
A funeral for William is scheduled for Thursday December 30 at 2pm at Sunset Funeral Home with a visitation to begin at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Located at 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park IL 61115. A visitation will be held at 1pm until the time of service.
