Obituary of James Prater

James “Jimmy" Edward Prater was born in Fargo, N.D. and passed away suddenly as a result of an aneurysm at a hospital in Wadena, Minn. Jim was 46. Very close to his family, Jim is survived by his wife and life partner of more than 24 years, Paige and 3 children of Otsego: Nicholas “Nick,” Tyler and Alexander “Alex." Jim was also survived by his parents Jean and Edward "Eddy" of Ramsey; sister Paula (Troy) Minske of Zimmerman, brothers Scott of Ramsey and Michael “Mike” (Nicole) of Zimmerman; father-in-law Richard “Dick” Pryd of Maple Grove; sister- and brothers-in-law Lexann (Rick) Reischl of St. Cloud; Scott (Monica) Pryd of Oak Grove; and Richard “Rich” Pryd of Maple Grove. A 1987 graduate of Anoka Senior High School, Jim was a naturally talented business and salesperson, and he substantially and successfully grew the family business over time as General Manager for Eddy’s Auto Body & Sales in Ramsey, Minn. When not working long hours, Jim enjoyed NASCAR, snowmobiling, bowling, fishing, casino trips and traveling to Mexico, northern Minn. and Wisc. With a larger-than-life personality and the ability to make friends wherever he went, Jim leaves behind too many to count who will miss him deeply. Friends and family are invited to attend a visitation at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 5 with a memorial service to celebrate Jim’s life beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Catholic Church of St. Gerard, 9600 Regent Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, Minn. A reception will immediately follow.