Charles "Chuck" Austin Pratt

Charles Austin Pratt, "Chuck," died unexpectedly in San Luis Obispo, California, on April 27, 2018. Chuck is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marian; his daughters: Beverley Pratt and Susan Soto, her husband Tony and her son Brys Luther; and grandson, Forrest Shepard; stepson, Chris Balcom, his wife Elisabeth and their children: Nick Balcom, his partner Natalie Ramirez, and their daughter Noah, Jake Balcom and his partner Jade DaCosta, Cori Balcom, Hali Jorgensen, and Hannah Jorgensen; and stepdaughter, Tracy Kline, her husband Trace, and their daughter Chelsea Gipson and her husband Matt. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles A. and Bernice Pratt. Chuck was born on January 19, 1937, in Pecos, Texas. He graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1958 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and minors in both Welding Engineering and Math. That began a long and very successful career as a General Engineering Contractor on the Central Coast. Chuck first worked for W. M. Lyles, then branched out on his own to establish West Coast Construction Company, and later, Charles A. Pratt Construction Company. He is lovingly remembered by his family and many friends for his strong work ethic, wisdom, generosity, and his heart of gold, and he will be greatly missed. Chuck was passionate about airplanes and automobiles, many of which he collected and treasured throughout the years. He was active in the Pacific Bonanza Society, Duke Flyers, and AOPA, with the Woods Humane Society and the Salvation Army, holding special places in his heart. A chapel service is scheduled for 1:00 pm, Friday, May 11, 2018, at Los Osos Memorial Park, with a reception to follow at the Madonna Ranch Barn. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Chuck's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Woods Humane Society or Cal Poly San Luis Obispo's Mechanical Engineering Department. The family would like to thank the many nurses and doctors in French Hospital's Intensive Care Unit for their kindness, compassion, and dedication as it was a blessing to us during this difficult time.