John Wendell Prater

John “Wendell” Prater, a native of Lake Charles, LA and resident of Baton Rouge, LA, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, October 19th, 2017 at the age of 75. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many. Wendell attended Baton Rouge High School and graduated from LaGrange High School in Lake Charles. He attended McNeese University and served in the United States Army Reserve. He worked in the chemical and manufacturing industries throughout his life retiring from Georgia Pacific Pulp & Paper Mill in Port Hudson, LA, after 27 years of service. He also owned and operated for several years a ServiceMaster carpet cleaning and disaster recovery service franchise. He was a member of Florida Boulevard Baptist Church and active officer of the Millbrook Homeowners Association. In his retirement, Wendell “Paw Paw” enjoyed spending time with and taking care of his family especially his bride and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Wendell is survived by his wife of 51 years, Melba Brister Prater; daughter, Tammie P. Kubelka and husband, Kris; son, Wendell “Troy” Prater and wife, Leslie; his six grandchildren, Megan Elizabeth Prater, Connor Paul Kubelka, Brandon Troy Prater, Claire Elise Kubelka, Brett Lawson Prater and Cohen Tate Kubelka; sisters, Charlotte Prater, and Melissa P. Richard and her husband, Mike; brothers, Huey Prater and wife, Zita, and Fritz Prater and wife, Judy; sisters-in-law, Frances Edwards, Carole Prater and Nell Prater; brother-in-law, John Brister and wife, Maureen; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Ferdinand Prater and Mary Etta Sullivan Prater; brothers, Albert, Wayne, and Mark Prater. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to neighbors and first responders, the doctors and staff of Ochsner Medical Center, and all who have given love and support during this most difficult time. Visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA, on Monday, October 23, 2017, from 5:00PM until 8:00PM. Visitation will resume at Greenoaks on Tuesday, October 24, 2017, from 9:00AM until the time of funeral services at 10:00AM. Pastor Joey Beeson will be officiating all services. Burial will immediately follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Wendell’s name to Florida Boulevard Baptist Church or the charity of your choice. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.greenoaksfunerals.com.