Wilmer Prager

Wilmer “Willie” E. Prager, age 60, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, February 23, 2017, at home with his family by his side.Born February 9, 1957, in Wood River, he was a son of Earl and Sylvia (Brueggeman) Prager.Willie worked as a saw operator in the truss and lumber industry for over 30 years, most recently for Mattingly Lumber and Millwork in Granite City. He was known for his extensive experience and strong work ethic.He was an avid hunter, a skilled outdoorsman, and an accomplished gardener. He hunted and grew most of his own food.He appreciated good music and was an ardent Beatles fan, seeing various members of the band perform live many times during his lifetime.He is survived by two sisters and two brothers, Dorothy Ward of Fosterburg, Sherrie (Bruce) Neff of Columbia, MO, Tom (Paula) Prager of Fosterburg, and Frank (Christine) Prager of Dorsey. He is also survived by three nieces and four nephews, Sherrie (David) Brooks, Christy (Marty) Steele, Matthew and Katherine Neff, Paul and Jimmy Prager and Charlie Prager.He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Leo Prager.Visitation will be held Sunday, February 26, 2017, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton.Visitation will also be held from 9:00 am until the time of service at 10:00 am, Monday, February 27, 2017, in the funeral home chapel with Chaplain Jason Pierce officiating.Burial will take place in Fosterburg Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fosterburg Cemetery Association.Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements.Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com

Obit Provided By:
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home