Wilson Phillip Pratt

Cambridge-Wilson Phillip Pratt passed peacefully in his sleep at his Cambridge residence on Tuesday, April 27, 2021.  Born at Mary McClellan Hospital in Cambridge, NY, Wilson was one of six children born to Wilson and Helen Pratt of South Cambridge.  He attended Cambridge Central School, K-12, graduating in 1975.  Known to his family and childhood friends as “Bud”, Wilson spent many summers playing with his cousins Alan and Gale on the family’s farm, helping his father feed the animals, or fishing in nearby the Wampakak creek.

He was known to be an avid hiker in his early adulthood.  He spent many hours hiking the wooded trails surrounding his childhood home in South Cambridge.  He would also periodically travel to the Adirondacks, where he would hike to his favorite spot on the top of Bear Mountain.  Wilson was also an avid gardener.  He was especially proud of his “famous” hot peppers and would use them during the community chili cook-offs he enjoyed so much.  He would also routinely add them to recipes, which he would share with his unknowing family.  He greatly enjoyed watching their reaction as their mouths filled with the tremendous heat of the hot peppers! 

Wilson worked for many years for Ed Levin Jewelry Design as a silversmith, which piqued his interest in creating his own jewelry designs.  He produced and sold his jewelry at shops and art shows for many years following.  Later in life, Wilson opened his computer installation and repair service, Battenkill IT. Wilson was always enthusiastic about introducing his customers to the latest technology, integrating computers into a client’s business, or repairing a student’s laptop and restoring their lost files.  He was referred to as an “expert” by many of his customers and truly loved his job.

“Bud” loved Cambridge and its residents.  He greatly enjoyed walking the sidewalks and stopping into the local shops and businesses to offer a friendly hello or strike up a conversation with a fellow town resident.  Known as a local “Cambridge character”, Wilson could be found on a barstool at the Argyle Brewery on most weekends.  He was a craft beer enthusiast and prided himself of having his own beer stein permanently hanging behind the bar at the brewery.  Wilson enjoyed the camaraderie he encountered there and spent many hours listening the musical entertainment and joyful conversation that filled the pub.  He will be remembered for his bright smile, infectious laughter, and generous spirit. 

Wilson is survived by his siblings, which include: Floyd Pratt of South Cambridge, NY, Bonnie (John) Williams of Carbondale, CO, Andrea Pratt of South Cambridge, NY, Becky (Jeff) Yount of Castle Rock, CO, Steven (Barbara) Pratt of East Greenwich, NY, and several close cousins.  He is also survived by ten nieces and nephews, and five great-nieces and nephews, in whose heart he holds a special place.  Wilson is pre-deceased by his parents, Wilson and Helen Pratt. 

Friends and family may call on Saturday, May 8, 2021 from 11am - 1pm at the Ackley, Ross & Gariepy Funeral Home, 73 West Main St., Cambridge with a short memorial service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made, in Wilson’s honor, to the Cambridge Public Library, 21 West Main St., Cambridge, NY  12816 which supports his beloved Cambridge community.

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