WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Rondal Ray Prater, age 59, of Sturgis, passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon, October 23, 2025, at his home with his loving wife and son at his side.
He was born February 4, 1966 in Kendallville, Indiana, son of the late Ruby Prater and Otis Sparkman.
Rondal had made his home in Sturgis for the past 25 years, coming from Wawaka, Indiana. He was the proud owner and operator, alongside his son Zachery, of Prater Mobile Home Repair. Hardworking and devoted, Rondal found his greatest joy either on the job or surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of over 40 years, Twyla (Gillette) Prater; his children: Zachary Prater of Sturgis, Dustin (Danielle) Combs of Wawaka, Indiana, and Julissa (Brian) Dowling of Somerset; and two grandchildren he cherished more than anything, Lindsey and Landon. Also surviving are his brothers: Bill Prater, Scott (Tracy) Schuster, and Chris (Lenore) Schuster, all of Sturgis; his stepfather, Douglas Schuster of Sturgis; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, Zeke and Zelia Prater.
In honoring Rondal’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at the family home at a later date, gathered around a bonfire with loud music, laughter, and the sharing of a cold beer, just the way Rondal would have wanted it.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Memorial donations would be appreciated to Hackman Family Funeral Homes, P.O. Box 9, Sturgis, MI 49091, to assist the family with expenses.
Relatives and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com
