Mrs. Rita Jane O'Brien-Glaser

Mrs. Rita Jane O'Brien-Glaser, 71, of Canton, Illinois died Thursday, March 26th, 2020 at 6:45 P.M. at her home surrounded by her loving family shortly after they sent a toast to Heaven to open the gates that Rita was coming.

She was born January 24th, 1949 in Galesburg, Illinois the beloved daughter of Charles F. and Rose C. Mangieri O'Brien.  She was married to James Ray Buckman for 40 years and most recently to Terry Lee Glaser for 7 years.

Rita is survived by her husband, Terry; two daughters: Dee Dee (David) Boyer of Maquon, Illinois and Tiffany (Kristina) Brett-Buckman of Galesburg, Illinois; one son: Jarod (Kari) Buckman of Maquon, Illinois; two step sons Tyler (Bethany-Ellory, Knox and Wynne) Glaser and Nathan Glaser, Galva, Illinois; 7 grandchildren, Ethan, Bella, Dalton, Kolbie, Quinn, Drew and Brock, and several grand fur babies.  She is also survived by her Father, Charles (Carole) O'Brien, Sr., two sisters: Angela (Dennis) James, Lisa (Darren) Gardner and two brothers: Chuck (Jan) O'Brien, Brad (Michelle) O'Brien and several nieces and nephews, who loved her dearly.  She was preceded in death by her Mother, Rose.

She graduated from Spoon River Valley High School in 1967.  Many years later, she became the High School secretary there and it was by far one of her most favorite jobs.  Being a Mom and Grandma was her favorite.

She was active and participated in many things, some of which were cashiering at C&R Market, an EMT, Spoon River Valley School Board and Booster Club, a wickedly fun room mother, District 205 Substitute Secretary, Maquon Township Supervisor, Maquon Fire Department Trustee, CCD Instructor at St. Patricks Church in Elmwood, Manager at the Maquon Miracle Mart, Aide to State Representative Gale Schisler, Server at many local establishments, (The Tea Room, Marion's Other Place, The Grove and Tiffany's On Main).  

She was the only babysitter to never be X'd by Ethan and Bella.  She hosted many Friday Night Fright Nights with Dalton and Kolbie and was the wiffle ball bunt leader over Quinn, Drew and Brock.

She was passionate about her love of Christmas and snow and also recently became just as passionate about gnomes.  She absolutely adored road trips with her children and grandchildren and was always up for a great time.  She loved to dance, was the life of the party at social gatherings and had never met a single stranger.  She was a safe and understanding respite for her school kids to go to and felt an amazing sense of pride in this knowledge.  Her compassion and empathy for the underdog in any situation was relentless.  She loved sending cards to any one for any occasion. She fiercely believed in the Chicago Cubs and was so excited when they won the world series.  Against all odds she was passionate about life because she simply could not imagine it without her children and grandchildren. We hope she is now eternally watching the sunset at her favorite place on Earth, a lake in Northern Minnesota. 

Unfortunately for someone who loved a good party, due to the circumstances in the world right now we are unable to give her the proper sendoff that she deserves.  Cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Abingdon Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials can be made to the Molly Kay O'Brien Scholarship at Spoon River College or the Canton Illinois Meals on Wheels in care of the Hinchliff-Pearson-West Chapel, 206 North Washington St, Abingdon, Illinois 61410.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.

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