Obituary of Rita Prowant

Rita A. Prowant, of Henry, Illinois, died May 5, 2021 at Heartland Nursing Home, in Henry. She was born in Blue Island, Illinois, July 25, 1938 to James Frasor and Phyllis (Heckler) Frasor. Rita graduated from Newman High School. She attended Loretta Heights College and graduated from Marquette University. Rita was a housewife, speech pathologist, nursing home activity director, director of Hammett house for developmentally disabled, and PEO member. Rita married Edward W. Lang in 1960. Ed died in 1994 following cardiac complications. Rita married John (Jack) Prowant in 1998, who died on March 21, 2021 from a lung infection. For many years, Rita accompanied Jack, who was a traveling minister for Village Missions, as they ministered to communities. Rita and Jack both joined St. Andrew Catholic Church on Easter 2019. Rita loved praying at St. Andrew Catholic Church in the adoration chapel. Rita and Jack both received the Last Rites before passing. Rita was able to have some family surrounding her near the end and left last words to her grandchildren that included her deep love for them, as well as the joy they all shared of loving Jesus. She asked them to study history, going deeper to search for truth. Rita made friends wherever she lived because she loved unconditionally, and she gave of herself. She especially loved her family, spiritual reading and visiting nursing homes. Rita was a great cook and an excellent pianist. Rita was devoted to her children. She enjoyed having her hair done and sharing chocolate candy which became an ongoing source of fun and laughter as she nearly opened a candy store in the nursing home. Survivors include her children Mark (Jane) Lang, Michele Chadwick, Mike (Katie) Lang. Seven grandchildren and seven step grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Step son Terry (Cindy) Prowant, step daughter Vickie (Robert) Abell. Sister Marcia (Tom) Blum. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Jim Frasor, and son-in-law, Kent Chadwick. Visitation will be at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Rock Falls, Illinois, on Monday, May 17, 2021 at 9:30AM; followed by Mass Of The Christian Burial at 10:30AM celebrated by Father Richard Russo. After Mass the burial will be at St. Mary’s Calvary Cemetery in Sterling. Mass will be live streamed and can be accessed by standrewrockfalls.org and clicking on the facebook page link. Memorials may be directed to St. Andrew Catholic Church or Heartland Nursing Home in Henry Illinois.