Prater, Wesley E.

Saline, MI

Wesley Prater, age 90, passed away Monday, April 7, 2025 at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital. He was born April 27, 1934 in Bonanza, KY to Sherman and Mollie Ann (Sparks) Prater. On March 24, 1985 he married Barb Lambert in Ypsilanti Township and she survives.

Wesley worked for the city of Ann Arbor as a firefighter for 26 years and was president of the Ann Arbor Firefighter's Association. He served 22 years on the Ypsilanti Township Board of Trustees, eight years as supervisor of Ypsilanti Township and over 10 years on Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners. He was a life member of Phoenix Lodge #13, Tri-County Sportsmen's League and Fraternal Order of the Ypsilanti Eagles #2250.

In addition to his loving wife of 40 years, Wesley is survived by five grandkids; Greg Jr., Robbie, Joslynn, Summer and Demitri; step-son Tim (Jackie) Culkar, step-daughter-in law Yvette Culkar, five great-grandchildren; Joylynn, Caitlin, Michael, Madeline and Alex; brother Dallas Scott Prater; sister-in-law Judy Prater, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sons Joseph and Gregory; granddaughter Jennifer, step-sons DJ Culkar and Jack Culkar; step-daughter Sherry Culkar, sisters Mary Catherine and Eukie; brothers Robert, Harry, Sherman "Dick" Jr. and Derral Ray; and sister-in-law Margarette Prater.

Viewing will take place 4-8 pm Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Stark Funeral Professionals (101 S. Washington Street, Ypsilanti). The funeral service will be held 11 am Friday, April 11, 2025 at First Free Will Baptist Church (1244 Holmes Road, Ypsilanti). Wesley will be laid to rest in Highland Cemetery, Ypsilanti. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice .