Walter C. Pratt Jr., 72, of Rockford went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 26, 2012 at 6:35 a.m. after a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer. Born on November 18, 1939 in Chicago, son of Walter C. Sr. and Lucyle (Bender) Pratt. Graduated from Downers Grove H.S., class of 1957, and took college classes too numerous to mention but never pursued a degree. Wally began flying at age 15, soloed at 16, and had all his flight ratings by age 21. He developed and taught the aviation ground school curriculum at Rock Valley College and founded Greater Rockford Aviation Flight School and Charter Service in the 70's. Employed as Chief Pilot for Clarcor, retiring in 2002. Active at Maywood Evangelical Free Church, he served in Men's Ministries and the Deacon Board for many years. Besides flying, one of the joys of his life was sailing. Was certified on some of the big boats on Lake Michigan and enjoyed taking groups of people on the water to experience a day of adventure, teamwork, and recreation. United in marriage to Carol Koutnik on October 1, 1960. Survived by his wife, Carol; children, Marshall Pratt, Eric (Michelle) Pratt; grandchildren, Matthew Dashiell and Bronté Ananda, and step-grandchildren, Marissa and Joshua Lester all of Rockford; and half-sister, Nancy Hill of Elgin. Preceded in death by his parents and son, Evan Pratt. Visitation Sun., Nov. 4, from 5-7 p.m. at Maywood Evangelical Free Church, 3621 Samuelson Road Rockford. Funeral service will be on Mon., Nov. 5, at 11 a.m. at Maywood Evangelical Free Church, with an additional visitation from 10 a.m. until time of service, Dr. John Strubhar officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Andrew Patten Center For Leadership Development, c/o MEFC. Interment in Arlington Memorial Park. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family. To share a memory or condolence online, visit www.graceFH.com .