Baton Rouge, Louisiana - William Michael "Mike" Prestridge, age 79, passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve, Louisiana. He was born on June 10, 1946, at the old Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Mike was a member of University United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge since childhood. However, he always remained a part of First United Methodist Church, where he was baptized and his mother served as the church pianist. A 1965 graduate of Glen Oaks High School, he kept up with many of his classmates, attending monthly gatherings at their favorite restaurants. Mike proudly served our country in the United States Army from 1968, until his honorable discharge in 1972. He ranked Private First Class and served two tours of duty as a trained Morse Code Interceptor in the Vietnam War. Throughout his service, Mike received numerous military awards and decorations, including the National Defense Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal, Rifle Expert/Sharpshooter Badge, and Republic of Vietnam Unit Citation. Mike was preceded in death by his father, William Monroe Dowden; mother, Sadie Clyde Clark Prestridge; and wife, Dallel Bernadette Olivier Prestridge. He is survived by his GOHS classmates and special friends, Harriet & Mark Smith, Carol Civils, as well as his caregiver and dear friend, Patricia Ponthier. Patricia would like to extend her heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home for the compassionate care they provided Mike during his final nine months. Not only did the Veterans Administration honor Mike for his service, but they also cared for his medical needs throughout the rest of his life. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Graveside Service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com