Bobby Prater, a man known for his service to the Morrison community as its mayor and fire chief, died Wednesday night after an extended illness. He was 82.
Prater was known for his willingness to serve as he had been affiliated with Morrison Fire Department since its inception and was fire chief for over 50 years. When it came to government, he was a Morrison alderman, vice mayor and mayor.
“He was always available to help the community in any way he could,” said Morrison Mayor Sue Anderson. “He did so much and was such a good neighbor. He’s going to be missed.”
Added Morrison resident John Jacobs, “He was a very public-minded person who was a valuable citizen in the community. He was a real asset to Morrison.”
Mr. Prater served as an elder at Morrison Church of Christ for over 25 years and was honored as Morrison Ruritan’s Citizen of the Year in 2002.
Serving as a firefighter was close to his heart. In addition to his work as fire chief, Mr. Prater was also president of the Fire Chief’s Association.
Born in January of 1929, he graduated from McMinnville Central High School in 1947. Professionally, he worked for 32 years at Magnetek Century Electric.
Funeral service for Mr. Prater is Saturday at 2 p.m. at Morrison Church of Christ. Complete obituary information is available on page 2-A.