John Proctor Pradka

John Proctor Pradka, 76, passed away August 15, 2024 after surviving an extraordinary series of health struggles. He was born October 7, 1947 in Queens, NY to John W. and Sarah (Proctor) Pradka.

As a true renaissance man, John was well-traveled, well-read and deeply appreciated music and art. He loved nature and enjoyed nothing more than discussing politics, music, books, finance, astronomy, and the Earth’s origins. A lifelong classical musician, he focused on guitar and bravely started violin lessons at age 70. He loved boating and surfing with his classic red board.

John’s early life was spent on Long Island NY, where he would bike to the marina, take his boat and surfboard across the bay, and surf at Tobay Beach. He graduated from Massapequa High School in 1965 and Southampton College in 1970, where he majored in philosophy and history. He obtained his Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central School of Law in 1974. John served on the Durham City Police force for many years, holding a variety of positions, retiring as a Sargeant in 2002. In his retirement years he became a piano tuner.

John wanted to be a dad so he read parenting books and developed a strong, clear approach to child-rearing. Totally devoted to Sarah and Anna, he created endless learning opportunities with reading, concerts, hiking, climbing, boating, camping, star-gazing etc. He was attentive and supportive and enjoyed their independent streaks. 

He enjoyed Lois’s large extended family, returning to Maine each summer to tow many waterskiers around Sebec Lake. John was supportive of Lois’s sisters Jo Eaton, Fay Richards, and Rose Fraser and provided stimulating and directive conversations to nephew Jason Eaton and nieces Erin Harper and Keva Crockett.

John’s health struggles were legendary. After a cardiac arrest with life-saving CPR from fellow policemen he had his first cardiac bypass surgery in 1983 at age 36. His genetic cholesterol was easier to manage once statins were available, but he remained dedicated to a low-fat, plant-based diet and consistent exercise his entire life. He had a second heart surgery in 2001 and was doing well until diagnosed with metastasized prostate cancer in 2007. He participated in treatment and clinical trials at the Duke Cancer Center until last December when he entered hospice care. He was able to stay at home until his passing.

John was a longstanding member of Pilgrim United Church of Christ and sang with his beloved choir for many years. 

John and Lois started their family life in Durham in 1980. A lifelong feminist, he adored Lois and his daughters Sarah and Anna and delighted in their achievements. He is survived by his wife Lois (Richards) Pradka and his two daughters and their families; Sarah Lucas and her husband Donald and their four children John (Jack), Claire, Emily and Jane; and Anna Young and her husband Bryan and their son James. He is also survived by his beloved little dog Harpo. He was close to his cousin, Susan Pierce and her husband, John of Hillsborough NC.

Consistent with his love of science and research, John donated his body to the Anatomical Gifts Program at Duke Medical School. A celebration of his life will take place on October 12 at 11 am at Pilgrim UCC 3011 Academy Road, Durham NC, 27707.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the classical radio station WCPE in Raleigh, NC.