David Chadwick Pratt

David C. Pratt was born on June 1, 1942 in Los Angeles, California, and passed away on December 25, 2025 in Chanhassen, MN. He was 83 years old. He grew up in Berkley, CA and attended El Cerrito High School, and later pursued college studies in both California and South Dakota. He was raised by his parents Helen and William Pratt, alongside his older sisters Eleanor and Dorothy. Upon graduation, he set out to explore the world, and he sure did.

He began his aviation career with Slick Airways, where he lived in Japan and quickly rose to the role of Operations Manager. He later joined Airlift International, living in the Philippines as Station Manager while supporting cargo operations across the globe. After marrying Joan McCoy Sapp, he joined Southern Airways, which later became Republic Airlines. This chapter brought the family from Georgia to Minnesota in the late 1970s. Republic eventually became Northwest Airlines, where he continued his career and ultimately retired.

Dave was a dedicated and focused sports fan since childhood. He enjoyed a lifetime of travel and adventure and time on the water, spending many years boating on The Golden Venture on the Mississippi River. In retirement, he divided his time between Minnesota and a small town in southern Baja, Mexico, where he built lasting friendships and embraced a life filled with sunshine and community.

He is survived by his wife Joan; children David Sapp, Meredith Sapp and David Chadwick Pratt, Jr. (Chad); his grandson Isaac; his sisters Eleanor and Dorothy; plus his cousins, niece, and nephews. Dave will be remembered by friends and family for his devotion to family, his love of aviation, and his adventurous spirit.