Henry Prati, 92, Iconic D.C. Restaurateur

Beloved, Henry Prati died after a long and full life of 92 years.  He passed peacefully on March 27, 2014, with his family love surrounding him. 

He was born in Yorkville, Ohio in 1922 and soon made his way with his parents to Washington, DC; which would prove to be his canvas for adventure and accomplishment for the rest of his life.  He attended Wilson High School in Washington, DC and was destined for a Baseball Scholarship at Georgetown University, when World War II called.  He enlisted in the Navy and was soon gallantly serving in Submarines in the difficult and intense Pacific War Zone during the war. 

Upon his return, at the request of his father, he began his journey into the Restaurant world.  Along with his brother Aldo, he represented what can be considered, the true beginnings in DC’s culinary emergence.  In short order, Henry established Aldo’s, The Eagles Nest, The Rotunda, The Owl and Tortoise, Sir Raymonds Steak House and ultimately, took ownership of the infamous Dominique’s Restaurant. All of them, renowned and greatly successful “best choice” restaurants in the Nations Capital.

In 1947 He married Helen Tallick.  Together, they had five children and enjoyed a loving life in Bethesda, MD.  For years, together, they were smiling and loving faces around the community and in particular, as a true lover of golf, at Congressional Country Club – where Henry was a revered honorary member.

Henry was a devoted husband, loving father, friend and a barrel of love to his grandchildren.  “Nono” was always there with the greatest of smiles and sincerest of hugs and inquisitive energy for all who met him. Generous and engaging as the day was long, never short for tremendous stories.

He is survived by his beloved wife Helen and Four of his children: Linda Prati, Michael Prati, Mark Prati and Christine (Tina) Learned along with four loving Grandchildren Peyton Learned, Devon Learned, Logan Prati and Christopher Prati.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 10, 2014 at 10:30am at Saint John The Apostle Parish 101 Oakcrest Manor Drive, NE Leesburg, VA  20176 .  Phone: 703-777-1317