Ray Prater

Ernest Raymond Prater, 68, of Medaryville, IN went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 after a brave fight with cancer. He passed away peacefully in his sleep. Ray was born on June 13, 1957 in Rensselaer, IN. He graduated from Kankakee Valley High School in 1975. Ray followed in his father's footsteps as a union laborer and later worked at Sealy Springs. Throughout his working career, he also operated his own roofing business along side his brother-in-law. Ray really enjoyed the physical parts of the job as well as the heights. Although he was disabled in the later years of his life, he saw it as a blessing that he was able to spend more time with his family.

Ray's greatest joy in life was being a father and a papaw. He would stop to brag to anyone who would listen about his daughters, grandchildren, and great grandson. He always had time to play or talk about anything they were interested in whether it was a new video game, a favorite TV show, or a game of chess. He found no greater joy in life than them.

Ray never knew a stranger. He could talk to anyone for however long they were willing. He was always eager to help a friend in need and had a hard time telling anyone no. Ray was a kind and generous man, who would give you the shirt off his back. He will be missed by so many.

He is survived by:

Nicole (Justin) Burns, Daughter

Mary (Cory Schleman) Prater, Daughter

Caitlyn Schleman, Granddaughter

Justin Burns II, Grandson

Serenity Schleman, Granddaughter

Isabelle Burns, Granddaughter

Holden Howard, Great Grandson

Raleigh Helton, Brother

James (Michelle) Prater, Brother

Many Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Oliver (Virginia) Prater, Father

Judith Banks, Mother

Opal Sue Craft, Sister

Ronnie (Judy) Prater, Brother

Thom (Bobbi) Helton, Brother

Oliver Junior Prater, Brother

Randy Prater, Brother

Cremation will take place at Frain Crematory in Winamac, IN.

The family will host a Celebration of Life on Monday, August 18, 2025 at Amazing Grace Fellowship Church in Francesville, IN. Visitation will be from 3-5 PM EDT and Services will be held at 5 PM EDT.

Private Burial will take place at Rensselaer Memory Gardens Cemetery in Rensselaer, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist the family with final expenses.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.