WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Louise Marie (Van Zile) Pratt, age 72, formerly of White Pigeon, died Thursday Feb. 23, 2012 in Celina, TN where she has resided the past 11 years. She was born in Mottville Township, MI on April 24, 1939 the daughter of Clarence and Gladys (Strawser) Van Zile. She was a 1957 graduate of White Pigeon High School and attended Western Michigan University and Glen Oaks Community College. Louise had worked at Continental Can, General Motors, and retired from American Axle in Three Rivers. She was a former member of the Mottville Community Church, loved playing music, quilting, ceramics, and crafts.
Louise was married to George Pratt on Aug. 10, 1963 in Constantine. He survives along with 5 grandchildren, John Rousch of California, Raquel Ellis of Louisville, KY, Robert Pratt of Three Rivers, Justin Pratt of Sturgis, and Megan Pratt of Bronson; 2 great-grandchildren, Mia Nash and Isreal Ellis; 1 brother, Richard Van Zile of St. Joseph; 1 sister, Ruth Ann Terry of Atlanta; a sister in law, Phyllis Van Zile of Elkhart; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Betsy Rousch; a son, Gerald Pratt; and by 2 brothers, Leroy and Marvin Van Zile.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Farrand Funeral Home in White Pigeon. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday Feb. 29, 2012 at the funeral home with Rev. Wilbur Brandli officiating. Burial will be in Mottville Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.
