Robert Joseph Pratini

Bob Pratini passed away peacefully with family by his side October 24th at the age of 92. He was born on July 23, 1920 in Pittsburg CA to Stephen and Edvidge Pratini, who met in the U.S. after emigrating from Italy in the early 1900’s.

He is survived by his wife, Loretta Faye Pratini, his children Adriane, Alan and Nanette Pratini, his brother Edo Pratini, his stepdaughters Joanne Jacobson and Rhonda Kohler, and his former wife Harriet Pratini. He was preceded in death by his grandson Joseph Epperson and stepson Barry White.

Bob lived in Mission Canyon for nearly 50 years before losing his home in the Jesusita fire. He grew up in the San Jose area, then moved to Fresno. He and his brother hiked most of the John Muir Trail in the late 30’s and early 40’s, when just driving to the trailhead was an adventure in itself. He worked for the US Forest Service in Weaverville, CA then served as an MP in Puerto Rico during World War II. After the war he attended Santa Barbara College (now UCSB) and fell in love with the area. He returned to Fresno to begin his teaching career where he met and married Harriet Gould Childers. They had three children and moved to Santa Barbara in 1960. Bob taught music at La Cumbre Jr. High then transferred to Santa Barbara Jr. High, where he taught P.E. and math and coached the track team for many years until his retirement. Bob and Harriet divorced and he married Faye Donovan.

Bob loved music and played several instruments, most notably the string bass. He played with many local band leaders over the years, including Lencho Martinez, Dick Prato, Al Magdalena and Newt Perry.

A Memorial Service will be held 11am Saturday Nov. 10th at the McDermott Crockett chapel at 2020 Chapala St. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Musician’s Local 308, The Sierra Club, or the SB Visiting Nurses and Hospice Association.