Rita Mongan

Princeton - Rita Jean Mongan, 80, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on September 2, 1943, in Princeton, Illinois, to Jack Leroy and Hazel Dorothy (Brutcher) Nickelsen. Rita graduated from Princeton High School in the Class of 1961 and married Dennis Mongan in 1962, with whom she later divorced. For 43 wonderful years, she shared her life with George Watson, creating countless cherished memories together. Rita had a deep passion for her community and was known for her unwavering dedication to volunteering. She contributed her time and energy to numerous organizations, including the Red Cross, Modern Woodmen, the Bureau County Fair, the Homestead Committee, and the Farm Bureau. In her free time, Rita loved to play cards with friends, ballroom dance, and cultivate her beautiful flower garden. She was a devoted grandmother who took great joy in attending her grandchildren's sporting events, often spoiling them with her affection. Rita's warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments. Services to follow at Norberg Memorial Home Inc. & Monuments on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. officiated by Pastor Michael Freeman. Graveside immediately following at Elm Lawn Memorial Park, with words of comfort offered by Pastor Michael Freeman. Survived by her love of 43 plus years, George Watson of Princeton, IL; Children, Marc (Michele) Mongan of Princeton, IL and Brenda Mongan of Kansas; eight grandchildren, Christopher Mongan, Nichole Hagebush, Blake Underwood, Amber Underwood, Brittany Wright, Darrin Bentley, Kody Mongan and Kelsea Mongan; twelve Great Grandchildren; sisters Donna (Rodney) Herzel of Idaho and Doris Clifford of Chatham, IL. Preceded in death by both parents Jack and Hazel Nickelsen, one son, Michael Mongan, a great granddaughter, Lacie Mongan and one brother James Nickelsen. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to bureau County Senior Center. Pallbearers: George Watson, Kody Mongan, Blake Underwood, Darrin Bentley, Christopher Mongan and Kelsea Mongan. Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com Arrangements by Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.

Rita Mongan

September 2, 1943 - July 26, 2024