Herman J. Prager, Jr. "Dutch"

Herman John Prager, Jr., age 99, a WWII submarine veteran, fondly known as “Dutch”, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. Beloved husband of 38 years to Jane Atkins Prager; father of Herman J. Prager III, PhD of Austin, Texas; grandfather of twins, Kurt F. Prager, Jr. (Nicole) of Reno, NV and Katelyn Jean Prager of New Orleans; brother of Elaine Prager Ridgley; stepfather of Debra Ann Edwards (Steve); step grandfather of Sarah Michelle Kegerreis (Christopher) and Emily Marie Guillory (Kyle); and step great grandfather of Addison Grace, Baylen Christopher Kegerreis, Lucy Marie Guillory, Cayde Joseph Guillory, and Noelle Jean Kamissar. Also survived by his true friends over the many years in business, bowling, golf, fishing, hunting, Veterans Affairs, and WWII.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman, Sr. and Althea Dowty Prager; his first wife of 37 years, Katherine “Kay” Prager; his son, Kurt Francis Prager; his sister, Loyce Ann Prager Falati; and his stepmother, Anna Romano Prager.

“Dutch” entered this world in New Orleans, at home, 6043 Magazine Street, January 1925. He attended St. Francis of Assisi School and Church. He later moved to Metairie in 1935, and graduated from St. Catherine of Siena School in 1938. He was a member of the St. Aloysius 1942 State Bowling Champions and graduated the same year.

As his school buddies were leaving for WWII service, “Dutch” wished to offer his time for service. In June 1942, he worked at the family business, Prager, Inc., machine and gear plant at Howard Ave. and Magazine St. In January 1943, age 17, he enlisted in the US Navy and was sent to San Diego Training Center for “Boot” Camp and Machinist Mate School, where he graduated in top of the class. He also volunteered for submarine service.

He transferred to the USS Kingfish and served abroad for four war patrols. He earned the Submarine Silver Dolphin Qualification Pin and the Submarine Combat Pin with two stars for three successful patrols. When he returned to the U.S., in Galveston, TX, his family was on the dock waiting for him. He then went to New London, CT to work on a boat for decommission, and eventually transferred to New Orleans Lakefront Naval Station in January 1946.

“Dutch” entered the family business, Prager, Inc. Machine and Gear Repairs, founded by his grandfather, Bruno Prager, in 1897, as an apprentice machinist. He then advanced to foreman, draftsman, estimator, secretary, vice president, president – CEO, and his last position held was chairman of the board, when the business was acquired by a gear company from Antwerp, Belgium in 1991.

Other lifetime activities he held were Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop 50 at St. Catherine of Siena Parish; President of the Dads Club and Cub Master, Pack 100, St. Pius X Church in Lake Vista; Commodore of the NO Power Boat Association; owner and driver of the 48 Hydo, “The Flying Dutchman”; Region 9 director of the National American Power Boat Association; founder, along with the late Paul Kalman, the NO Big Game Fishing Club in 1960, where he served as president for 30 years; charter life member and LA State Commander for 10 years with the US Sub Vets WWII; chairman of the NO Joint Machinist Apprenticeship Committee; served on the National Board of the American Gear Manufacturers Association; charter member of the National WWII Memorial, Washington, D.C.; charter member, volunteer, and lecturer at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans; present member of the Coastal Conservation Association and received a “Lifetime Achievement Award” in appreciation for his longtime contributions to the conservation of marine resources; he also received the National “Billyfish Rybovich Lifetime Conservation Award”; he was an ardent member and angler of the NOBGFC and the Tally-Ho Club; and past member of the Hunter of the Little Lake Hunting Club. He also enjoyed golf, with his only hole in one, at the Alexandria Country Club. He strongly believed in the “Prayer of St. Francis”.

“Dutch” had a special love for his dear and devoted wife, Jane, a true inspiration; thanks to his son, Herman III, PhD, for his love and staying in touch; and to all of his fishing, hunting, and golfing buddies, who added to his life. Enjoy today, for one never knows what tomorrow will bring. God bless all. Stay safe, healthy, and happy. Amen!

The family would like to extend their gratitude and a special thank you to the staff of Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington; Belle Maison Rehab in Hammond; and North Oaks Hospital in Hammond, for their care and compassion.

The Mass and burial were private were privately held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dutch’s memory to the Billfish Foundation, www.billfish.org/donate/

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com