Don Pratt, a prominent Tri-City builder, entrepreneur, volunteer and philanthropist, died April 7 after suffering a heart attack during a morning hike on Richland’s Badger Mountain.

Pratt, 66, received the community’s highest honor when he was named Tri-Citian of the Year in 2018.

The award, given jointly by Kiwanis International and Rotary International, was presented at a banquet headlined by another prominent citizen, former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis.

He was nominated by Linda Moran, who said at the time she was embarrassed she hadn’t done so earlier.

Pratt was president and owner of Don Pratt Construction, a residential and commercial building firm. He was also a tireless volunteer for Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels and a champion for a dizzying array of civic causes, many supported through his decades-long affiliation with Sunrise Rotary Club.

He served on the Blue Mountain Council for Boy Scouts of America as well.

Pratt graduated from Kennewick High School in 1971. His self-named commercial and residential building firm launched in 1977. He was an active member of the Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities, serving several board terms and as the industry association’s president.

Pratt joined the HBA in 1989 and went on to become one of its most active and influential members joining the board of directors in 1994. He remained on the board until his death, holding the position of president three times. He was an anchor of the Parade of Homes, entering a home every year, and insisting that only HBA member suppliers and subcontractors be allowed to work on his home.

Jeff Losey, president and chief executive officer, said Pratt was celebrated for identifying needs in the community and taking them on as personal challenges, all without seeking attention or praise.

“He never stopped,” he said.

“Don’s passing leaves a gaping hole in both the community and our organization. The HBA and the Tri-Cities are better because of him. Our condolences go out to Don’s family,” the HBA said in an April 8 newsletter sent to its members.

Meals on Wheels remembered Pratt for delivering meals along with his father until his father’s death.

“Don was a generous, kind, and humble man who truly lived our principle of putting the needs of others before his own. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. His passing is a huge loss for our community,” the nonprofit said in a tribute posted to Facebook.

Because of COVID-19 concerns, Pratt's service will be held privately. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Hillcrest Funerals and Cremation of Kennewick is in charge of arrangements. A tribute wall to share memories or photos of Pratt can be found on the funeral home’s website.