“My sister, Debbie, started this event six years ago,” stated Vicky Williams, President of Revitalization of Akeley and Russell. “She passed away in November, and I promised her that we would continue doing this and have the parade.”

Prowitt’s niece Kacey O’Conner and Jansen and Bowen Walters led the way, carrying a banner dedicating the parade to her memory.

Mindy Snarburg, Debbie’s sister and grandmother to Kacey, Jansen, and Bowen, said, “She loved entertaining the kids. She always wanted to do this for the kids.”

Prowitt enthusiastically undertook numerous volunteer roles with R.O.A.R. and participated in events at the Russell United Methodist Church, embodying small-town pride.

Photos by Heather Cathcart-Norris Bowen and Jansen Walters and Kacey O’Conner, carry banner dedicating the 2024 Pine Grove Days parade to their late aunt Debbie Prowitt.

In addition to the parade, hundreds of residents and visitors enjoyed vendors, music, and food. The night cleared up after midday storms and concluded with a beautiful fireworks display.