Charles R. Prater, Jr.

Marion – Charles R. Prater, Jr., 65, of Marion passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at 9:30 PM at his home.   Charles was born January 3, 1949 in Pontiac, Michigan the son of Charles R. And Marcella (Gutek) Prater, Sr.   Charlie was an avid sports fan and supporter of many local youth teams. He coached St Joseph's church league basketball for many years. He helped coach Swamp Fox track and field. He coached little league baseball for many years as well as announcing and umpiring. He was a member of the Marion High school and SIU side line crew. Charlie announced games for almost all teams in Marion. He was a member of the Jaycees international senate and served as the National Director of Jaycees of Illinois at one time. Charlie dedicated his life to the youth of Marion. Charlie was a member of the Knights of Columbus where he reached the title of 4th degree. He was a very loving and giving person to everybody he met. Charlie was a dedicated member of St Joseph's Catholic Church.    Survivors include his; Nephew – Cameron Wright and wife Elissa of Marion Niece – Jennifer M. Sauerbrunn and husband Mark of Lenexa, Kansas Niece – Kimberly Meade and husband Brian of Marion Nephew – Christopher M. Wright and wife Janna of Marion Brother-in-law – Thomas M. Wright of Marion Two Aunts;   Betty Prater of Pana   Mary Prater of Pana Cousin – Mary Meadows of Streator, Illinois Great Nephews;   Braxton Wright, Devyn Wright and Bria Wright of Marion   Preceded by his Parents and Sister – Patricia Wright   A funeral mass will be Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at 10 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marion with Monsignor Thomas Flach officiating.  Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery.  Visitation will be Monday evening from 5 – 8 PM at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home.   For those who prefer memorials may be made to the Marion High School Athletics.  Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market, Marion, Illinois  62959.