Daniel “Danny” Thomas Pratl was the kind of person whose presence quietly became part of everyday life in the Chicago Ridge community. He did not seek attention or recognition, but his steady reliability and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on those around him.
Pratl, 64, of Lebanon, Indiana, died suddenly on Jan. 18, 2026. Although he later moved out of state, Chicago Ridge always remained home to him. It was where he built his life, raised his family and formed friendships that endured for decades.
Born July 3, 1961, in Chicago, Pratl grew up with strong South Side roots. He graduated from H.L. Richards High School, where friends remember him as a proud Bulldog with a determined streak. After high school, he went on to build a lifelong career in construction, work that suited his hands-on nature and strong sense of responsibility. Those qualities showed not only on the job, but in how he lived his life.
In Chicago Ridge, Pratl was known as someone you could count on. He was quick to offer help, whether it meant fixing something, giving advice or simply showing up when someone needed support. Friends and neighbors recall his honesty, his quiet sense of humor and his ability to make people feel at ease.
Family was always at the center of Pratl’s world. He shared 39 years of marriage with his wife and best friend, Cheryl L. Scher Pratl, and took great pride in their children and grandchildren. Some of his favorite moments were simple ones spent fishing, watching Chicago sports, especially the Cubs, or sitting with friends, a cold Bud in hand and plenty of stories to share.
Pratl is survived by his wife, Cheryl; children Matthew (Claudia) Maxwell, Michael Maxwell, Danielle (Luke) Athans, Colleen (Matthew) Caputo and Theresa Pratl; and grandsons Max, Damian, Danny, Aaron, Niko, Jacob and Tommy. He is also survived by his siblings Don (Rita), Ron (Jocie), Den (Charlotte), Peggy (Dan) Gardner, Rick (Patty) and Rob (Kathy). He was a proud godfather, a beloved uncle and great-uncle, and a friend to many.
A private family viewing will be held following cremation. A Celebration of Life is planned from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, at the American Legion, 10739 S. Ridgeland Ave., Chicago Ridge.
Those who knew Pratl in Chicago Ridge, including neighbors and the members of the American Legion, say his legacy is found in the everyday kindness he showed and the relationships he built. He will be remembered not for grand gestures, but for the steady, genuine way he lived his life and cared for the people around him.