Darwin “Marv” Prater

Darwin Francis "Marv" Prater, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed

away peacefully on May 9, 2023, in Rolla, Missouri. Born on November 4, 1928, in Meta, Missouri,

Marv's wit, intelligence, and determination touched the lives of all who knew him.

Growing up in Meta, Marv attended country school before entering the US Air Force, where he served in

Korea and was honorably discharged. Following his military service, Marv worked for a finance company

in St. Louis, where he met Joan Anslinger. They were married on April 11, 1959, in Afton, Missouri, and

together, they raised their three children:  Terri, Dave and Andy.

In 1967, Marv's entrepreneurial spirit led him to purchase the Meramec Chrysler Dealership in Sullivan,

Missouri. He loved selling cars as he successfully ran the dealership and eventually worked for other

local dealers until his retirement in 1993. Throughout his career, Marv was known for his honest and

sincere approach to business, qualities that earned him the respect and trust of his customers and

colleagues.

A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, Marv enjoyed watching baseball games and was an ardent supporter of

his favorite team. He could often be found in his garden tending to his plants, a hobby that brought him

great joy and relaxation. He was also an avid reader. In his younger years, Marv was an avid hunter and

fisherman, and he cherished the memories of taking his family to his favorite fishing spot, a tradition

that continued through the generations.

Marv was an active member of his community, serving as a member of the Sullivan Optimist Club, the

IDA Board of Sullivan, and St. Anthony Catholic Church. His volunteer work demonstrated his dedication

to improving the lives of those around him and his strong belief in giving back to his community.

Marv is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joan; his children, Terri Miller (and husband, Jim), Dave Prater

(and wife, Marleen), Andy Prater (and wife, Adriana) all of Sullivan, MO; his grandchildren: Jake Prater of

Michigan, Matt Miller of Sullivan, and Brian Miller of St. Louis, MO; a great-grandchild, Brookelyn; his

sister-in-law, Monte Prater of Tulsa, OK; and his nephew, Robert Prater (and wife, Barbara) of Sapulpa,

OK.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Francis Prater and Ida Pearl (Champlain) Prater, his

sister, Doris Stuckenschneider, and his brother, Robert Prater.

A Memorial Mass will be 11:00 AM, Monday, May 15, 2023 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Sullivan

with Father Paul Telken celebrating.  Burial will follow at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Sullivan.  Cremation

arrangements have taken place. 

Visitation will be 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Monday, May 15, 2023 at the church prior to Mass.

Memorials in Marv’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Condolences may be shared with Marv’s family online at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.