Michael John Pratt

April 29, 1932 - January 8, 2024

It is with great sadness and love that we share the news that Michael John Pratt passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 91, at Mountain Lake Seniors Community. The family feels heartfelt gratitude for the dedicated staff and caregivers there for their compassionate, skilled care of Michael in his last days.

A British born resident of Nelson and the Slocan Valley, Michael was the cherished father of Barbara, Steven, James, Martin, Thabi, and Kwame, grandfather of Caleb, Laura, Holden, Sol, and beloved husband of Puleng.

A celebration of life for Michael is planned for Saturday, June 29th, 1 pm at the Vallican Whole Community Centre.

Michael was a warm, quirky and vibrant light, a deeply strong and gentle soul. To simply say that he was a loving father and husband would be a wild understatement. There are no words for the impact that he has left on all of our hearts and lives.

His unconditional love, his true kindness, humility and generosity were not only felt by his family and local community but stretched out across the globe through his meaningful career with the Canadian International Development Agency, his progression-inspired leadership in the Anglican Church, his dedication to and through Nelson Rotary, his tenderly compassionate volunteering with the Hospice Society, and his continuous support of various worldwide charities.

A Ph.D. scientist, passionate gardener and joyful athlete, Michael was an active man who adored swimming, boating, running, singing, building inukshuks and of course gleefully eating his daily ice cream. He actually snowboarded well into his 80's - I mean why not if they'll let you do it for free?!

He was always a winner in the Nelson Triathlon because for several years he was also the oldest competitor and the only one in his category - so he never minded settling down on the grass for a cup of tea from his British thermos to warm up after the sometimes chilly swimming portion of the race, lol.

Michael lived for many years with his first wife, Gretchen, and their four children in the Slocan Valley, where he helped to build the Vallican Whole Community Centre and its beautiful stone steps.

We wish you all the profound peace, joy and relief of the universe, dearest Michael, and we love you to the ends of the earth and beyond where you now are, in our hearts, on our minds, and vividly present in our beautiful memories and energy.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, please go to www.thompsonfs.ca