Charles "Charlie" Clifton Prather `'s Obituary
Charles "Charlie" Clifton Prather
Born on January 18, 1931 in Clarksburg, West Virginia to Dr. Ernest Prather and Hazel Brookover Prather. He died on August 1st, 2023.
He grew up on his father's and grandfather's large farm and came to know the hard work and pleasures that come from that upbringing. From cutting and baling hay to hunting squirrels and groundhogs in the "hollar", to fishing and skipping rocks at the "crick". In high school, he played Alto Saxophone in the band and again at Greenbrier Military School where he continued to play in the orchestra.
Charles served as an Aviation Electronics Technician (AT) in the Navy from 1952-1956. He obtained the rank of E-4, Petty Officer Third Class stationed on the USS Valley Forge in Norfolk, Virginia. As an AT he served in the VS-22 antisubmarine squadron and performed maintenance on aviation electronics systems including communications, radar, navigation, antisubmarine warfare sensors, electronic warfare, data link, fire control and tactical displays. He served aboard the S2F Aircraft as a combat air crewman. In 1956, he was honorably discharged.
After the service, Charles attended Philadelphia Wireless Technical Institute and graduated with a degree in Radio Engineering and Radar. His first employment was with a Delaware public broadcasting company but quickly found a lifelong career as an Electronic Technician at ABC Television Station (Channel 6 WPVI) in downtown Philadelphia, PA. He was involved in audio, visual, and taping of shows. He was a loyal employee until he finally retired at age 70 with many years of service to that company.
After deciding to leave the snow behind, Charles moved to Florida in 2014 and he lived at The Atrium retirement community until his passing.
He leaves behind his daughter, Cheryl Prather Gehrke (Gainesville, FL), granddaughter Cameron Gehrke, his son Mark Prather (Hanover, PA), grandson Noah Prather and granddaughter Lilliane Prather, as well as niece's Martha McCormack and Janet Vaught.
He will be remembered for speaking his mind with no filter or apologies, wearing a crisp white dress shirt (even for casual events), being fiercely independent, and being frugal except for generously covering his children's college expenses and funding all 3 grandchildren's college funds. "Education is the only way to get ahead in life."
He liked to travel, sing during car trips, read non-fiction military history books and NRA magazines, watch action and western movies, keep up on current events and to him; nothing beats a good steak.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to all who extended care and kindness to him. If so inclined, please make a donation in his honor to the charity of your choice.
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