Robert's obituary
Robert (Bob) Pratt was born in the Seattle area. In his early childhood, Bob grew up playing outdoors, and going to racetracks nearby. This is probably what started his love affair with cars. The son of a mechanic, these skills were as much a part of Bob as was his infectious smile and personality. He was a boy scout and loved being in nature. Robert's family moved to the Palouse/Pullman area where he made lifelong friendships. During the Carter Administration, Bob had even written a letter to Amy Carter which made headlines when she replied. This was something he was extremely proud of, keeping the newspaper clipping among his many treasured memories. Full of energy and often mischief, Robert was briefly in the Marines and subsequently went to Job Corps. It was then that he met what would become the mother of his 3 children and moved to Spokane. From there Robert enrolled in college in the Automotive Program with a dream of becoming an automotive machinist, which he did accomplish. He had a special affection for Chevys with an extra love for Novas and jacked up 4x4 Chevy pickups. He raced for a time at the Spokane County Raceway even winning "King of the hill" and spent his anniversaries going to the World Finals. Unfortunately life happens, he was divorced and moved to Seattle working for his wonderful uncle Tod's painting business where he again excelled. Robert was a brilliant man, he could do anything he set his mind to. His natural talent for auto mechanics was well appreciated by many, even passing knowledge down to his children. While his choices and life wasn’t always simple he, did struggle with sobriety. Fortunately he had been clean for over 10 years and worked tirelessly to make up for lost time. He moved to Billings and ended up taking care of his mother until her passing. He spent many road trips visiting friends and family and was probably more comfortable behind the wheel of a car with the stereo cranked than a fish in water. Weather didn’t deter him from visiting, he made time for those he loved and it showed. Robert was successful in his carreer and it showed as he quickly ended up in a management position. He tried to treat each person as an individual and understood how important it was to give someone a chance. This showed as well in how many lives he touched, countless people helped and the vast impact he had on those around him. He blessed his grandchildren with the love of a wonderful "Papa Bob" who squeal with joy at the mention of his name. He loved to cook, he loved to share his food and recipes with those around him. He loved his friends, his children and grandchildren like no other. You weren't friends with Bob without often hearing a "Love you" from him, even his ex-wife. Robert is survived by his children Anthony (Savage) Pratt, Jennifer (Pratt) Peterson, Brianna (Pratt) Abel, grandchildren (Zaydin, Isabella, Madilynn & Deklyn), brother Scott Farrand, and sister Laura Bland, along with nephews and nieces. Robert is preceeded in death by his Grandparents (George & Marjorie Pratt, Irene Gutierrez), parents George & Vicky Pratt, siblings (Georgie Pratt and numerous extended family. The void created by his loss is huge, as is the absence of his large personality and laugh but most importantly the hugs, no one gave a hug quite like Bob and if you ever received one you were blessed.
Please join us for his Celebration of life with family and friends. We will gather together on July 22, 2023 at Comstock Park. Address is 3012 S. Howard St, Spokane, WA, 99203. Please bring your fondest memories of him to share with family and friends.