Harlen Wayne Prater
August 28, 1936 ~ May 3, 2024
Harlen Wayne Prater, 87, of Gypsum, died May 3, 2024, in Salina, KS. He was born August 28, 1936, in Williams, OK to Leonard and Daisy Mae (Bollinger) Prater.
Harlen enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1954 and was honorably discharged in 1960. After serving in the Air Force, he was employed by the United States Postal Service for 30 years, retiring in 1995. After retiring, Harlen and Grace traveled all over the US in their motorhome.
They also traveled to Hutchinson every year to work at the Kansas State Fair where they made many friends and fond memories. His hobbies included woodworking, trains, volunteering, and spending time with family. He was an avid coffee drinker and could often be found drinking coffee with his coffee club.
On September 20, 1957, Harlen married Grace D. Peck. They shared 61 years of marriage, before her passing in 2019.
Surviving are, his sons, Harlen L. Prater of Gypsum, David (Lori) Prater of Hutchinson, Allen (Elaine) Prater of Assaria; 6 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, and 2 brothers.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Grace; parents Leonard and Daisy; 1 sister, and 2 brothers.
Memorial service will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Gypsum, 807 Spring St., Gypsum, KS 67448. Inurnment Will be in the Poheta Cemetery, Kipp, KS with military honors presented by VFW Post #1432 of Salina, KS.
Memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, in care of Roselawn Mortuary, 1920 E. Crawford, Salina, KS 67401.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services. Online condolences may be sent to www.roselawnsalina.com.
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