Ralph Roland “Rolly” Pratt was called home to rest in the arms of Jesus at 11:10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021.

Ralph Roland ‘Rolly’ Pratt

He was born Jan. 7, 1923, in Akron to Ralph and Lydia Beulah (Churchill) Pratt. At 19, he joined the Army and served three years during WWII.

After returning to civilian life, Ralph worked in construction until an opportunity arose to go to California and work for the U.S. Forest Service. Ralph ended his working career as a sales manager in 1984 after spending 31 years at Sears.

Upon returning to Indiana, Ralph met and married Armelia Reeves. To this union, Barbara, Susan, Shirlee and Nancy were born. Armelia died unexpectedly at 40.

Ralph met a widow, Phyllis (Fleck) Davis, and they were married July 18, 1969. Ralph became Dad to four bonus children: Randy, Darlene, Rick and Debbie. The blended family has thus far celebrated 52 years together.

On April 4, 1965, Ralph made a life-changing decision as he accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior and began a long, fulfilling Christian legacy, baptizing into Christ many family members and friends.

Left to honor Ralph are his wife, Phyllis (PJ); their children, Barbara G. Barbara, Susan (Fred) Habermann, Shirlee (Steve) Morrison, Nancy (Dairl) Sander, Randy (Pat) Davis, Rick (Susan) Davis, Darlene Shock (fiancé Jim T.), and Debbie (Cyndi Pierce) Davis; 16 grandchildren and mates; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Waiting in Heaven were his parents; sister and brother-in law Gloria and Paul Bowen; great-granddaughter Molly; and twin great-grandsons Shock.

The viewing is 3-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14, and funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 15, both at Deer Run Church of Christ. Masks are required for both.

Phyllis and family want to thank Holly and the staff from Heartland Hospice for the wonderful care they provided. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Heartland Hospice, 2703 W. Catalpa Drive, Suite D, Mishawaka, IN 46545, or Deer Run Church of Christ, 2730 S. Ironwood Drive, South Bend, IN 46614.

Palmer Funeral Homes – River Park Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.