Paul Pratico was born in Collesano, Sicilia to Carmelo and Basilla Pratico, both of whom are now deceased. He immigrated to America with his family when he was eight years old and grew up in Coney Island, New York.
Paul’s family moved to Fort Wayne Indiana when a job opportunity became available for his father. His mother died at a young age and he was raised in part by his grandmother, Maria, and his Aunt Sarah.
Paul served his country honorably during the Vietnam War and finished his college education at Indiana University where he was Phi Betta Kappa. He also went on to get his MBA in business.
Paul loved to work on cars and met his wife, Joy DenHouter, when she moved in next door. She would see him outside working away and got to know his back cheeks better than his front cheeks. His father decided that she would make a perfect wife for Paul and the rest is history.
Paul’s career path centered on insurance although he loved anything mechanical and loved all science and engineering programs. He was a partner at Insurance & Risk Management and a Vice President at Waterfield Insurance before starting SourceOne Insurance with his wife in 1994. He worked in the property/Casualty Department helping people to find the correct coverages for their businesses both nationally and internationally.
Paul was known for his laugh. He loved to crack jokes and loved to laugh at his own jokes. He enjoyed spending time at his home on Marco Island and taking his boat out to see the dolphins and the manatees.
Paul is survived by his wife of 37 years; his two daughters, Noel J. Seiler and Lily Pratico; his brother, Vicent Pratico and his half-sister, Erminia Wamsley. He is also survived by his loving cousins, Maria Serrentino and Josephine Proszak, who supported him during his trials with cancer.
Paul loved animals and would adopt an endangered animal for his kids each year. Contributions can be made to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) as well as the Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.
Private services will be held with immediate family.
