Harry Prentice

In Honor And Rememberance

Father of three, grandfather of 14, and great grandfather of 7, Harry Bernard Prentice, age 82, of Leaf River, IL, passed away Friday evening, June 16th, 2023 with family at their home. Big Harry”, as he was called by those closest to him, was born on April 1, 1941 in Paw Paw, IL . He was born to James and Margaret Prentice. Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Rita Mae Prentice (76) and second grandson, Adam Spittler (28).

He was also preceded in death by his parents, James and Margaret Prentice, also by his sisters; Donna Lunardon, Dixie Johnston, and brother; James Prentice.

He is survived by his oldest daughter, Robin (Gary) Spittler of Adeline, IL, his son Harry (Linda) Prentice of DeKalb, IL, and his youngest daughter Rhonda Prentice (Jeremy Debord) of DeLeon, TX; granddaughters, Danialla Schreiber, Rita Prentice (Joel Gasmund), Michelle Wallace (Andrew); grandsons, Logan Prentice, Christian Prentice, Joshua Short (Wendy), Tyler Short (Shandon), Noah Spittler, Jeremy J DeBord (Hailey); great granddaughter, Mackenzie Schreiber, Gracelynn Short, Oaklynn DeBord, Savannah Wallce; great grandsons; Dyllan Schreiber, Jaxson Mills, Carson DeBord; also by his sister Diana Wise, and a small circle of loved ones.

Harry and Rita had their three children and raised them in Rochelle, IL where Big Harry had a 29 year long career at Del Monte. He also worked a second job which included driving tow truck for Lunardon Wrecking for approximately ten or more years. Later in life Harry and Rita purchased their property in the country where they built their home and farm in Leaf River, IL in 1990 and lived there the rest of their lives raising their grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Harry had throat cancer and lost his ability to talk in his early 50’s. He had to retire early from full time work due to a life altering farm machinery accident where he lost his arm. A fall off his roof that broke his back while hanging Christmas lights left him with further long term health issues. He is recognized by some closest to him for his resilience and determination. He was never known to give up. He overcame many battles. Family believe Harry was dedicated to his family and being there for others that came to him in times of need he helped whenever he could.

After purchasing his farm, Harry enjoyed caring for his animals and helping raise his grandkids with his wife. He took care in mowing his yard and maintaining the roadsides. He and his wife had an exceptionally large garden which they cooked and canned food from. His different interests included reading books, magazines and newspapers, listening to and watching the news and Westerns, horseback riding and trail rides, tractors and farming, and his family.

His bright blue eyes and smile will be missed by those closest to him and Harry will be remembered as an extremely hard working individual with a strong work ethic and true determination. He loved his wife, family, and farm.

Visitation in memory of Harry will begin at noon Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at Burke Tubbs Forreston,IL. Memorial service and prayer will start at 1:00 P.M. Interment at North Grove Evangelical Cemetery will follow.