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Richard Province Obituary
WASHINGTON - Richard "Dick" Adams Province, 63, of Lynwood, Ill., son of a Washington couple, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2014, at Ingalls Memorial Hospital.
Richard is survived by his adoring wife of 43 years, Jenna; his daughter, Genevieve (Mitchell) Taylor of Griffith, Ind.; his son, Adam (Jamie) Province of Chicago, Ill.; his daughter, Kathryn (Jennifer) Province-Garza of Hammond, Ind.; his grandchildren, Kelsey Taylor, Karli Taylor and Julian Province; his great-granddaughter, Aubriana Cook; his parents, Richard and Betty Province of Washington, Ill.; his sister, Marilyn (William) Bates of Washington, Ill.; his brother, Bryan (Susan) Province of Dunlap, Ill.; his sister-in-law, Cheryl Prasun of Taylorville, Ill.; his brother-in-law, Harold "Lip" (Evelyn) Smith of Taylorville, Ill.; numerous loving nieces and nephews and cousins; and wonderful extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Gary L. "Skip" Smith; a sister-in-law Joan Ackerson; nephew, Ryan "RB" Bates; nephew, Shawn Smith; and his grandparents.
Richard was born in Ironton, Mo., raised in Taylorville, Ill., graduated from University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, where he received his bachelor's degree, then moved to the south suburbs of Chicago, where he started his 34-year teaching career at Thornton Fractional North High School, where he retired in 2007. He earned his master's degree from Concordia University in 2006.
Richard was a passionate educator who truly loved his work and students. He was nominated for a Golden Apple Award for outstanding teacher, developed the school's Audio Visual Broadcast Communications program and also applied to be a first participant in the Challenger "Teacher in Space" program.
He was an avid recreational pilot, technophile, American history buff, proud Eagle Scout and loved all things music and played many instruments, but was known mostly for always having his guitar in tow, and loved jamming with his family. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, but most of all, was happiest when surrounded by his family.
Pastor Shannon Stringer will conduct his memorial service on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 6635 Hohman Ave., Hammond, Ind.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Ingalls Memorial Hospital Development Foundation or the Television Broadcast Department at TF North High School.
Arrangements are entrusted to Smits Funeral Home in South Holland, Ill. For further information, please contact (708) 333-7000 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Province
Bob & Judi Rude
October 26, 2019
We miss you Dick Province!
Soreta Durham
November 13, 2014
Jenna and Family - My deepest sympathy to you and your family. You will be in my prayers.
Wayne Babiak
November 9, 2014
The Memorial Service held yesterday for Dick was a wonderful tribute to a man with many talents.
I knew Dick thru his flying activities. He was a member of the RPM Flying Club and I had the opportunity to fly with him on several occasions. He was also on our SSIPA (Pilots Association) Board of Directors. Dick was the "tekki" guy that worked with me in setting up the yearly safety seminar held at Lansing Airport with the sound and video equipment. He knew how to "connect all of the wires" to make everything work!
He will be missed. On behalf of myself and the SSIPA Chapter, our deepest sympathy to you Jenna, and the rest of Dick's family.
April Edwsrds-Eichlin
November 9, 2014
The lyrics of "to Sir with Love " come to mind' ! Have fun in heaven my friend! I will miss our conversations and time! We raised a glass or two together. But what I will miss most is the friendship we shared. Thank you for your love. Please know it was returned ten-fold. Tell our friends hello from all of us and keep the music going !
Sherry Fanelli
November 8, 2014
Thank you for being a great teacher to me and helping me with my fear of speaking on camera. You will be truly missed. RIP
Joan McGarry (Kitchen)
November 8, 2014
Each year on 9/11, I think of Dick. That morning I stopped in the AV room to see Dick's student's editing video on their new Apple Macs. When the first plane hit the tower, I thought it was something the kids contrived. Dick said, "The kids are good, but not that's ours!" We stood together in shock as we watched the second plane hit. I will never forget that day or Dick.
Dick could take kids and make them believe they could do anything. He inspired, he didn't just teach.
Dear Jenna and kids, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chris & John Olsen
November 7, 2014
Having been blessed with Dick's friendship for over 40 years, it's impossible to reflect back upon the hundreds of fond memories we have of him and share them all in this tribute. For John it would be the annual fishing trips to Canada. For Chris it would be his love of good books and enjoying his kind and gentle nature. But for Dick, Jenna and the two of us, it would definitely be the the night he accidentally ate his dessert out of an ashtray at La Francais Restaurant . . That was so Dick . . . Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to Jenna and the family with hopes that they gain some level of comfort from knowing he is with God now, and is happy, and is well, for eternity. God bless you Dick. We're going to miss you terribly. Chris & John.
Jim & Rita Altman
November 6, 2014
Jenna and Family - Sending our deepest sympathy and love to you.
November 6, 2014
As Christinas we find comfort and take solace knowing our loved one is at peace in God's love. The times we shared at TF North as colleagues have become treasures of the heart. Somewhere, far beyond the stars, Richard now enjoys the banquet from the harvest of his life. His friendship, as teacher and colleague, enriched and enhanced countless lives. To his family, my heartfelt sympathy on your loss. Know that he will be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless us all.
Al Koch
Dyer, IN
Elizabeth (Lisa) Medina
November 6, 2014
My most sincere condolences to your family. Mr Province was not only the Greatest Teacher Ever, but a Great friend to us students. Being in the Drama Club and CAP (Civil Air Patrol) were the Highlights of my years a TF North. Heaven has the brightest shining star now. I'm so sad to hear of his passing, I can't even put into words all the great things I want to say. R.I.P. Mr Province.
Sandra Gnippe
November 5, 2014
I will always remember Dick's friendliness and enthusiasm for his family, colleagues, students, theater and flying. He loved the adventure of life. Over the years I have often thought about him especially when passing the Lansing Airport and TFN where I was a librarian. My thoughts are with you.
Bud & Ann Altman
November 5, 2014
So sorry, Jen.
Denise Prosser
November 5, 2014
Dear Jenna, Gini, and all the rest of you,
It's been many years since I've been around your family, but the stories of Dick and Jen and my parents will live on! Dick and my dad had so much fun! Mom was just telling the bowling story the other day! I pray peace and God's presence for each of you as you walk through the coming weeks, and may every memory you have make you laugh through your tears and be grateful for every moment you shared! He was great guy, and the tributes to his life speak VOLUMES in many ways! Love you guys!
At TF North, Drama Club's Prop Room, 1985
Karen Klamczynski-Moore
November 4, 2014
Nancy Simmering Perez
November 4, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Mr Province was a loving husband, father, and teacher. Always had a shoulder to lean on and words of advice. I was lucky enough to grow up knowing him and then have him as my teacher. The heavens have gained one of its brightest lights that will forever live on in all of us that knew him. Prayers to you Gini and your entire family. xoxoxo
Becky White
November 4, 2014
Bryan,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. What a profound legacy your brother has left. I hope that brings some comfort. In reading some of the tributes, it's obvious he was loved by many and will be sorely missed.
Michael Drobnak
November 4, 2014
Richard, thank you so much for writing a song about my career at TFS as well as playing and singing it at a retirement gathering even though we were just casual friends. That says a lot of your your huge giving quality.
Lisa Puma
November 4, 2014
I hope funny memories and warm hugs bring comfort. Mr. Province was my teacher and drama coach at TF North. He believed in me and what I was able to do WAY more than I believed and he made every part of the process fun. I totally enjoyed being part of the "Once Upon a Mattress" play and it was Mr. Province's enthusiasm that has carried with me as I watched my own daughter in her first high school play just last weekend. I can tell you the ripple effect a wonderful teacher can have. HE was a wonderful teacher.
blessings be to you.
Jim Marcelak
November 3, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Mr. P was a great teacher and loved by all.
Thomas Sidote
November 3, 2014
My sincere condolences to the family, friends and former students of Mr. Province. I had the pleasure of working with him for many years at TFN. As many of his students said, his guitar playing was always a highlight, especially at faculty gatherings. When he obtained his pilot's license he asked me many times to go up for a ride with him. Unfortunately, I was never able to take that ride..and when we both applied for the Teacher in Space program we talked about what we would do if we were chosen. Dick, I know now that you are in the heavens seeing the things you dreamed of. Rest in Peace, my friend.
Susan Drilling
November 3, 2014
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your husband and father. The world has lost a wonderful, talented, giving man who loved life and shared so much of it with his loving students and colleagues.
Nicole Demkowicz Walls
November 3, 2014
My heart is heavy for the entire family. A truly unique and wonderful man has left this world. He has how ever left an amazing mark on any of us who were lucky enough to know him. All my love.
Jim & Pam Aden McGowan
November 3, 2014
Jenna and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. You and Dick had many wonderful years together. I can still see you standing together in the halls of Taylorville High School. You were a sweet couple. Embrace the love of family and friends and most of all your faith to get you through this very sad time.
With deepest sympathy,
Jim & Pam Aden McGowan
November 3, 2014
I have many fond memories of Dick--his musical talents, his kind & giving soul. He was a wonderful individual.
-Cathy Wasielewski (Merrillville, IN)
Tom Lopeman
November 3, 2014
Sorry for your loss
Brian Stermer
November 3, 2014
Dick was passionate, compassionate and just plain fun. His love for his work was evident and he made going to high school actually enjoyable and provided a place for camaraderie and learning for anyone who wanted it and those who didn't even know they did. Dick was a great man who loved his family and loved what he did. What more can anyone want? My most sincere condolences to Jenna and his whole family (of relations and friends). I love you, Dick.
November 3, 2014
Jenna, Bryan and your family, Please accept our sympathy for the passing of your loved one. The statements from students were such a tribute. What a special teacher and mentor.
Marilee Turvey Wright
for the Turvey Family
John Schultz
November 3, 2014
While every teacher touches the lives of those they teach, a few manage to leave an indelible mark upon their students. Mr. Province did more than teach things to be forgotten later. He gave me memories to be cherished for a lifetime. The stories of high school drama club are still some of my favorite stories to tell, and I am still very much at home on the stage and behind it. Thank you, Mr. Province, for the learning, the music, the experiences, and the memories.
don wadas
November 3, 2014
may you rest in peace MR PROVINCE. You are still everyone's best teacher. you will be missed my friend.my prayers go out to your family.
Philip Levin
November 3, 2014
I'll never forget the day when Dick said we are going to take a show to the grade schools. Actors in rainbow colors, tech crew in black, band in white. Cleared a McD's on walking in. Grade schoolers loved us. Dick made high school fun. I'll will miss him, but still have great memories.
Sean Keenan
November 3, 2014
Thoughts and Prayers to the entire PROVINCE Family at this most difficult time. Great memories, true condolences to all of you.
Sean & Dustin
and The KEENAN Family
Craig Bleakley
November 3, 2014
Dick touched so many lives in so many positive ways through his kindness, concern and generosity of spirit. He is a role model among role models: a fine and dedicated teacher, an incredible mentor, a great friend. Thank you Dick, for your warmth, wit, and unstinting support. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jenna and the rest of Dick's loving family.
Nick Skipitaris
November 2, 2014
RIP Mr. Province. You were loved my the masses. Thank you for all that you have done for us. God Bless you and your family.
Dennis Oakley
November 2, 2014
I'll miss you Dick. You were truly one of the best teachers I ever had and you made a big impact on my life.
November 2, 2014
So glad I saw you this summer. You were a great neighbor and a great part of our village to raise our kids. You were an inspiration at New Year's Eve parties with your guitar and Mike's bass. Those are the days we will remember.
Leilane Linn
November 2, 2014
RIP Mr. Province. Thank you for everything: tech crew, snowball, snowflake and so much more. You helped me survive highschool. God bless you.
Tysha rivich
November 2, 2014
Mr. Province was an amazing teacher. He will be greatly missed.
Chris Whitaker (Matisi)
November 2, 2014
Thankful for all you gave Mr. Province and blessed I was taught by you. I'll always smile when I think of our "improv" group.
Elijah Richardson
November 2, 2014
I extend my deepest condolences to Dick's family and other friends. I was profoundly saddened by the news of his passing. Dick and I met and the University of Illinois in 1970. Shortly thereafter, we joined a few other guys and started a cover band which we named Abraxas. Dick was the guitarist and vocalist. I was the lead vocalist and percussionist. That was my first band experience and has always been a fond memory for me. Thank you Richard Province. Rest in peace.
Ann Witting
November 2, 2014
Dick Province was a wonderful colleague and friend who will be missed terribly. He left a wonderful legacy as a teacher and mentor and was a terrific role model for students and teachers alike. We will keep his memory alive by doing our best every day.
Veronica Rosales
November 2, 2014
Mr. P
You were one of a kind. You were always so full of life, in good spirits and a smile I could never forget. May you R.I.P
My condolences to Gini and the whole family.
Andrew Montalbano
November 2, 2014
R.I.P. Mr. Province you were one of the best teachers I ever had... I will always remember you.....
Jason Higgins
November 2, 2014
He will be missed, there is no doubt about it. Mr. P. made high school tolerable for so many of us. He was smart and SO funny! I always looked forward to being in his class. He touched so many of our minds and will stay forever in our hearts.
Karen Klamczynski-Moore '88
November 2, 2014
Mr. Province was my most influential teacher. I first met him in a Freshman-year class at TF North. I loved when he played his guitar in class. He periodically invited anyone interested to come by the auditorium to check out the Drama Club. One day, I dared to do so, and I can't possibly say enough about how he went on to become a beloved mentor for the rest of my years at TFN. I learned so much through my experiences with Drama, Speech and Tech Crew. We all looked up to Mr. P. ....It's probably okay to admit now that he'd write us notes if we were late for school. I still laugh at one he wrote, "Please excuse Karen for being late. She was looking at pictures. Be nice to her; she still has the negatives." I don't know how, but that was was accepted by my other teacher (with a stern look!). Gini and family, so many of us are moved to tears at the departure of such a thoughtful, talented, witty and wise man. I hope our collective stories bring to you comforting memories during this devastating time. All my sympathy to you.
Diane Kovacevic
November 2, 2014
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers to Gini and family. Your dad sounds like an amazing, loving man, father and grandfather. My prayers are with you.
Dolores Thomas
November 2, 2014
RIP Mr. Province.... You were a fantastic teacher and a great soul...I always looked forward to coming into your class.. And to your family, I send my deepest condolences.... YOU WERE A GREAT MAN AND HAD SO MUCH INFLUENCE IN THE LIVES OF SOO MANY PEOPLE!! Rest in peace teach.
Val Shafer-Pasrernak 88'
November 2, 2014
RIP Mr. Province. You were a great teacher and person. Prayers to your family and I'm glad I knew you.
Jackie Lentz-Bowman
November 2, 2014
Mr. P was the best teacher, mentor and friend any high school student could ask for. I credit him for the confidence he instilled within me to do or try almost anything. It has been touching to read the tributes to him on facebook from students spanning his 34 year career at TFN, and to know that his legacy will continue through those students whose lives he shared in. Love and hugs to Jenna, thank you for sharing your loving husband with all of us! Prayers to the Province family XOXOXO
Joe Blake
November 2, 2014
Very sad to hear of Mr. P's passing. He was more than a great teacher, he was also a friend. I have great memories of times spent with Mr. And Mrs. P. , especially helping them move into their Calumet City home many years ago. My prayers go out to Mrs. P. and her family.
Janine Velasquez
November 2, 2014
Mr Province will easily be remembered as a major influence from my High School years. His keen insights on the human condition as well as advice on handling others will always be foremost in my mind in years to come, as they have served me well in the adult years of my life. You will be missed at events to come,as I ponder your absence. It will always be to soon to say good bye.
November 2, 2014
Our deepest sympathy to Jenna and family. Jim & Cindy Wolf Geneva, Il
Judi & Bob Rude
November 2, 2014
We haven't had the pleasure of seeing Dick in many years-probably over 40, but we remember Dick as a loving Husband to Jenna and a wonderful father to "Ginny" and his other children. He was a great teacher and "thespian" and producer of plays at TFN High School. His students loved him for good reason, he always gave them lots of his interest and time. We always had lots of fun when visiting with Dick & Jenna--it was a wonderful friendship that we have missed over the years. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jenna and the rest of his family.
With Love,
Carrie Brosseau
November 2, 2014
so sorry for your loss. Carrie Brosseau
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