Frances V. Howanietz

Frances V. Howanietz, a beloved member of the Carol Stream, IL community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the age of 96. Born in Berwyn, Illinois, Fran lived a life full of love, service, and devotion to her family, friends, and community.

Frances was the cherished mother of John (Karen) Howanietz, Renee Corso, and Darren (Linda) Howanietz. She was a proud grandmother to Ashley, Sarah, Amy, Jr., Katie, and Theresa and a beloved great-grandmother to MacKenzie, Avery, Lorenzo, Emyrson, George, and Thomas. She is also survived by her sisters, Lucille and Virginia, and is fondly remembered as an aunt to many nieces and nephews. Frances is now reunited in peace with her late parents, Michael and Francis LaBarbera, her dearly missed husband, John Howanietz, and her siblings Rosalie, Marie, Vincent, and Lawrence.

Frances received her education at St. William School and graduated from Morton West High School, embodying a lifelong love for learning. Her professional career included dedicated service at Sears in the accounting department and as a librarian and clerical staff at the Carol Stream Public Library, where she shared her passion for books and knowledge with the community.

Her faith and commitment to her community were evident in her active participation in various organizations. Fran was a devoted member of the St. Lukes Catholic Church until its closure and also participated in the DuPage Italian American Club. Her service extended to the American Legion Post 76 Women's Auxiliary Club and the 8/40 Club, where she held numerous roles, contributing her time and efforts generously.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Countryside Funeral Home & Crematory, 333 S. Roselle Rd. Roselle, IL 60172. Prayers will be held the following morning at 9:20 am at the Funeral Home and then we will process to St. Walter Catholic Church, 130 W. Pine Ave. Roselle, IL for Fran's Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. Cremation will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made in Frances’ memory to the Kane County 8/40 Salon 63, 13485 S. Silverleaf, Plainfield, Il 60544. Attn: Jan Martinka. Please specify for either Nurses Scholarship, Children's Lurie Hospital, Comer Hospital or American Lung Association.

Frances V. Howanietz will be dearly remembered and deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace.