Beatrice DePratu, 86

Beatrice "Bea" DePratu, born May 10, 1939, in Cable, Wisconsin, passed away on March 7, 2026, in Whitefish, surrounded by the love of her family. Bea often joked that she was born in her grandmother’s back bedroom, a humble beginning that matched the warmth and storytelling spirit she carried throughout her life.

Bea was born to Warren and Sarah Rogers and was the oldest of three children. She liked to say that her schooling was "broad," because her father chased jobs "like a gypsy," moving the family from Wisconsin to Washington State and many places in between. Those early years shaped Bea’s adaptability, resilience, and her ability to make friends wherever life took her. 

Her family eventually settled in Eureka during her junior year of high school. It was there that Bea met Robert DePratu, who quickly became the love of her life. The two graduated from Lincoln County High School in 1957 and were married in 1959, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, hard work and family.

Early in their marriage, Bea and Robert owned and operated a motel together, learning the ins and outs of running a business side by side. Their life together was soon filled with even greater joy when they welcomed three beautiful children: Bret, Bart and Brenda.

In 1964, Bea and Robert began a new chapter when they entered the automobile business, opening DePratu Ford in Whitefish. Together they built not only a successful business, but a legacy of service, integrity, and community connection that would touch countless lives. 

Bea was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert DePratu; her parents, Warren and Sarah Rogers; her in-laws; her siblings; and her grandson, Ryan DePratu.She is survived by her children, Bret DePratu, Bart DePratu, and Brenda DePratu-Chapman (Sidney). 

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Delila DePratu-Webster. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Alison Brandt; Christopher DePratu (Angela); Tyler DePratu (Melissa); Shasta Dean (Shane); Amanda Kirkpatrick (Kevin) and Carson DePratu, as well as eight beloved great-grandchildren.

Bea will be remembered for her strong spirit, her devotion to family, and the love she poured into every chapter of her life. Her story was one of hard work, partnership, and deep roots in the community she loved. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Per Bea’s wishes, she will be honored by her family with a small, intimate gathering.