John Thomas Praetorius

ARLINGTON – Johnny Praetorius, 81, passed away Monday, March 26, 2013, at home by his wife's side. Services: St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 1200 S. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX. April 4, 2013, 9:30am Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet; 10am Burial Mass and Interment of Ashes; Light Reception follows Mass. Johnny was born August 23,1931 to Leo Frederick Praetorius, Sr. and Gertrude Karl Praetorius in Bay St. Louis, MS. He graduated from St. Aloysius High School in New Orleans, LA. Johnny lived his life in service to others: serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict, those less fortunate through acts of kindness throughout his life, and his family and friends. He worked for over 60 years as an Ironworker; he especially enjoyed building foundations and bridges. Those who know Johnny would agree that was true not only of his iron work but also his approach to life. Johnny loved fishing, visiting with his friends at the VFW, and spending time with his grandson, Jesús Juan Pablo who could always make him smile; he was overjoyed about his second grandson, Jesús Benedicto Andrés, coming in August. Survivors: His wife of 39 years, Yvonne Praetorius; daughter, Regina Trudy; son-in-law Brian Aguirre; grandsons Jesús Juan Pablo and Jesús Benedicto Andrés; brother, Leo Frederick Praetorius, Jr.; Nephews, Rodney Praetorius and Jerry Praetorius; Nieces, Jill Praetorius Oubre, Bernadette Brouphy, Amelie Heier; Grand Nephews, Brian Ogden, Shane Praetorius, Stuart Oubre, Jordan Oubre, Michael Brouphy, Tommy Heier, and Eddie Heier; Grand Nieces Natalie Praetorius, and Christie Brouphy: and numerous cousins, family, and friends. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Johnny's honor to either: St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church 1200 S. Davis Dr. Arlington, TX 76013 or Veterans of Foreign Wars 406 W 34th St. Kansas City, MO 64111