Doyle Dean Prentice

Doyle Dean Prentice, of Pulaski, born on March 11, 1940, in Durant, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, at the age of 85.

Dean was proud to have served as a machine gunner in the 8th Marine Corps District, where he distinguished himself as an All-Service Boxing Team Champion, quarterback of the USMC football team, and Lead Lifeguard of the Staff NCO Pool. While in the service, he was stationed at Kaneohe, Hawaii and Barstowl, California. His contributions to the railroad industry were equally notable, having worked as a car distributor and telegrapher for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad in Green Bay and a Supervisor for Union Pacific in Little Rock, AR.

Dean was passionate about life, finding joy in golfing, fishing, and hunting. He enjoyed coaching and mentoring little league for many years. These activities provided him with countless memorable moments, whether casting a line on a tranquil lake or spending time outdoors with family and friends.

A devoted family man, Dean will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Jane (Pirkov) Prentice, and their children: Douglas (Linda) Prentice, Jeffrey (Gail Sabotta) Prentice, Linda Gazella, Cheryn (Daniel) Prentice-Holstead, Bradley (Lynne) Prentice, and Gregory Prentice. He leaves behind a vibrant legacy of 18 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren who cherished every moment spent with him. He is further survived by three siblings, Margie Roads, Alice (John) Guillott, and Aubrey (Becky) Prentice.

Dean was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Sarah Prentice; parents Jack and Molly (Embrey) Prentice; son-in-law, Daniel Gazella; and nine siblings, infant Billy Prentice, Mary Lee Rowland, Jaunita Nix, G. W. Prentice, Walace Prentice, Wendell Prentice, Billy Prentice, Luetta Nelson, Paula Engle.

In celebration of Dean's life, family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, April 28, 2025 after 10:00 AM at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Sobieski. Mass of Christin Burial will follow at 12:00 PM at church with Father Francis Nusi officiating. Burial with military honors to follow at St. John Cantius Catholic Cemetery.

He will be deeply missed but will always be remembered for the love and laughter he brought to those around him.

"The man that did what he didn't have to do."