Robert L. Prater

September 24, 1931 – June 1, 2011

Robert “Bob” Prater, of Merced, Ca. passed away from this earth on June 1, 2011 with his wife of 30 years, Shirley, by his side. Bob had been of ill health for the last several years. He leaves behind his daughter, Robbie Gangloff; grandchildren, Jessica Breon, Elizabeth Breon, Joei Gangloff and Johnny Gangloff; step-grandsons, Jake Grbavac, Stan Victor and Jack Vann.

Bob Prater was born in Boulder City, Nevada to Mabel and Wilbur Willhoyte. After spending much of his childhood in Mexico and Arizona, Bob joined the United States Air Force at the tender age of 15. As a young man, he eventually set up roots in Merced, Ca. He worked over the years for several local trucking companies including Western Stone, Flintkote, and Miles & Sons. Somehow, while holding down a full time truck driving job, he opened his own business, “Bob’s Auto Wrecking.” It was likely here that Bob established his personal reputation as a master mechanic. Bob could fix darn near anything automotive!

Perhaps his greatest passion, besides family and friends, was auto racing. Bob was a stock car driver at Merced Speedway, and other valley tracks, during the late 1950’s and 1960’s. He was a fiery competitor on the track, as well as in the pits! With minimal sponsorship and finances to build a car, Bob still found his way to the checkered flag on many occasions.

Bob Prater was a member of the VFW, American Legion, Eagles, and “The Drifters” a local RV travel group. He and wife Shirley enjoyed many excursions and camping trips around California, Nevada, Arizona, and Florida.

Among people who knew him well, Bob will always be cherished as a true friend. But more than that, Bob will be remembered for his gracious spirit and guidance he offered as he helped raise his step-grandchildren. He was also a mentor to several other young men in his life, who cherished him as well.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mabel Simmons; sister, Joan Orillion; son, Randy Prader; grandson, Richard Prater; and step-daughter, Patty Grbavac.

A memorial services will be held on Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, 1490 B Street, Merced, Ca.

Remembrances may be made to Hinds Hospice, P.O. Box 763, Merced, Ca 95344.

Arrangements under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, Merced, CA.