Daniel Hugh Prather of Helena, MT passed away surrounded by his family on July 7th, 2026. He was 71 years old. He was born in San Mateo, CA on August 18th, 1954, to Lois Jean and Edward Morton Prather. He was raised with his sister Terry in Redwood City, CA. He graduated from San Carlos High School in 1973, and soon after, met and married the love of his life, Janice, in 1975. In 1980, Janice and Daniel moved to Santa Clara, CA where Daniel began working as a machinist for Star Products Corporation, a plastic fabrication company.

In 1983 the couple had their first child, Tamara, who was soon followed by Jeremy in 1985, and Nicolas in 1986. At Star Products, Daniel impressed the owner, Errol Coyle, and quickly advanced, becoming the Production Manager in 1983, and the General Manager overseeing all business operations in 1992. A couple of years later, Errol passed away and in an act of tremendous gratitude, willed the company to Daniel in recognition of his hard work and steadfast loyalty to the business. After taking ownership, Daniel continued to operate the business successfully for another decade, growing the company to over 40 employees with integrity and dedication. In an effort to spend more time with his family, he decided to sell the company and retire in 2006.

In retirement, Daniel took up several hobbies, including traveling, fishing, and 3D-printing. However, he endeavored to spend most of his time with his family, including his two granddaughters, Audrey and Emma. The passing of his son Nicolas in 2014 was an unexpected tragedy for the family, but Daniel’s strength and perseverance helped the family get through the difficult time. In 2024, Janice and Daniel fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving to the state of Montana, where they enjoyed spending time with their two young grandsons, Nicolas and Alexander.

Daniel is survived by his wife of over 51 years, Janice Prather of Helena, MT, his father Edward Prather of Seiad Valley, CA, who turned 101 years old in July of 2026, his sister Terry and her husband Joe Huffman of Gold Beach, OR, his daughter Tamara and her husband Jason Downing of Spring Creek, NV, his son Jeremy and his wife Meaghan of Helena, MT, his granddaughters, Audrey and Emma, and his grandsons, Nicolas and Alexander.

Daniel is preceded in death by his mother, Lois Jean Prather, and his son, Nicolas Prather.

A graveside service is scheduled for 11am at Forestvale Cemetery in Helena, MT on Saturday, July 18th, 2026. A reception will be held at 409 S Montana Ave, Helena, MT 59601 directly following the graveside service. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Daniel’s life.

Flowers and condolences may be sent to Anderson Stevenson Wilke, 3750 N Montana Ave, Helena, MT 59602.