Thomas "Tom" A. Prather

February 3, 1932 - February 9, 2020

Thomas “Tom” Archie Prather, 88, of Traverse City formerly of Elk Rapids, passed away on Sunday February 9, 2020. Tom was born on February 3, 1932 in Cass County, Michigan to the late Thomas Eston and Nell (Gleason) Prather. He married the love of his life Virginia “Ginny” Leach on August 14, 1955 in Cassopolis, Michigan. Tom had been employed in the fishing tackle industry, this provided him the opportunity to live in different areas of the country. He was the vice president with James Heddon and Sons and Bass Pro Shops and also the president of Glen L. Evans Company. Tom also worked in radio for many years, with KIHR, WTUB and WDOW. He lived in Elk Rapids and Traverse City for over 20 years. In his spare time, Tom enjoyed photography, history and researching genealogy. Tom always valued his many friendships, he had many close friends made through his morning coffee group. Above all, spending time with his family was his greatest joy. He will be remembered for the love, care and devotion he shared with his wife, Ginny. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Ginny; two daughters, Ginny (David) MacDonald and Gwen Prather; five grandchildren, Allie (Blake) Becker, Spree (Tsibishi) MacDonald, Alden (Joshua) Griffus, Morgain MacDonald, and Eston Prather; and eight great-grandchildren, Nthabeleng, Bohlale, Phaledi, Otho, Leslie, Harlow, Josie and Amelia. Tom is also survived by his two sisters, Jane (Robert) Deal and Ann (Larry) Keller, as well as many nieces and nephews. A memorial service honoring both Virginia and Thomas will take place at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684. A public virtual webcasting of the service can be viewed at www.rjfh.tv. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, https://alz.org. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Tom’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.