Of Joliet, at Silver Cross Hospital, Saturday, October 29, 2005. Age 89 years.\r\nSurvived by a grandson John G. (Marta) Sundquist and a great grandson Ryan Sundquist of Glen Ellyn, IL. Also numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.\r\nPreceded in death by her husband Howard L. Mead (1990), a daughter Kathleen Lenhardt (1986), her parents John and Mabel Provance, four brothers William, Clyde, George, and Thomas Provence, two sisters Laura Allen and Mabel (in infancy). \r\nBorn October 4, 1916 near Finley, ND. Her family moved to Joliet in 1922. Leota and Howard were married on Sept. 21, 1939 and were lifelong residents of the Joliet area. Graduate of St. Joseph School of Nursing in 1938. Devoted member of First Presbyterian Church, Marguerite Chapter #187 O.E.S., Bethany Shrine #7 White Shrine (Past High Worthy High Priestess), Friendship Court O of A (Past Grand Royal Matron, State of IL) and Order of True Kindred Vesta (Past Grand Commander of IL). Leota was a strong family person, devoting much of her life to helping others. She greatly loved friends and life. She and her locally famous pies will be missed by all.