Obituary of Thorville "Joe" Prather

A graveside service for Thorville "Joe" Prather, formerly of Milford, will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023 at 1:30 PM at the Rock Island National Cemetery.

Thorville "Joe" Wayne Prather, born on May 19, 1930, in Monroe County, Iowa, to Guy and Margret (Hunt) Prather. Joe peacefully passed away on December 19, 2023, at the Veterans Home in Marshalltown.

Joe's educational journey led him through Oskaloosa High School, where he graduated in 1948. Following his graduation, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army on January 19, 1949. With dedication and valor, Joe achieved the rank of Corporal and served during the Korean War, earning an honorable discharge on December 4, 1952.

On June 17, 1952, Joe was united in marriage to M. Ardyce Johnson in Oskaloosa. Post-military service, Joe entered the workforce and eventually earned his bachelor's degree from William Penn College. His career in education took him to various schools across Iowa until his retirement in 1970. Notably, he resided in Oskaloosa for most of his life until relocating to Milford in 1963.

Joe's commitment to community service was evident through his involvement in organizations such as the Masonic Lodge, Tri Lumnar #18, Eastern Star 146, and Disabled American Veterans, where he served as Commander in 1990/1991.

Joe found joy in bird watching, photography, fishing, and travel during his leisure time.

Joe was reunited with his beloved wife, M. Ardyce, in eternal peace. He was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Margret Prather, as well as six brothers: Lee, Ralph, Everett, Wilford, Kenneth and Donald Prather.