Replies: 27 Comments
on Sunday, April 6th, Maggie MacIsaac said
Jeanette,
Doug was such a special human being. The moment he walked on the Alhambra High School campus we knew we had scored! Great teacher, peer, committee member he was not to be with us very long. Off to the County
(eventually) so we had the privilege of working with him again. We were all very fond of him and could always count on him for positive advice and getting things done.
The memorial service was a tribute to him from those who loved him. I still see him skiing through the trees on those AHS ski trips. What a guy!
He spoke of his family often. I know you realize how much he loved you all-just so wonderful to see how openly and honestly he expressed his feelings. He is to be admired, forever.
Fondly,
Maggie
on Sunday, April 6th, Melanie Knox said
Jeanette,
I was so sorry to hear about Rock's passing. I regret I didn't get an opportunity to get to know you and Rock as a married couple & family. We seemed to of all went our separate ways after we got married (later in life), I think I was the last one to take the plunge! We stayed in touch through contacts with other people. I realized last night after reading Rocks blog and seeing you at the memorial yesterday that life is short. You take what is given to you and you wrap your arms around it and never let it go.
Our love and prayers go out to you and your family.
Melanie & Andy Knox (P.S. our 90lb. golden retriever Riley sends lots of kisses)
on Monday, March 31st, Teresa (Heiderick) Watkins said
Mr. Prouty was my high school Geometry teacher and my Volleyball coach during my sophomore year in high school at Alhambra(1994). Many, many years have passed since then and I fondly remember Mr. Prouty as a young, fun, inspiring teacher. One of the cool teachers who seemed more of a friend and a mentor than a Geometry teacher.
He was able to teach both subjects with so much passion. I could definitely tell he truly cared.
He was always smiling, joking and made Geometry fun!
I was very saddened to hear of his passing. This world is made better by people like him. He will truly be missed and thought of fondly.
on Sunday, March 23rd, Cindy Wadsworth said
Jeannette,
Doug has been gone just over one week and I have thought of him so often, both with smiles and tears. I know you already know this, but you were married to such a wonderful person, which must make you an amazing strong woman, because you are his other half. I hope that one day at time, that you, Nick and Alex are learning to cope and deal with missing him. I can't even imagine what you and your family are going through, but I know he is still watching over you, helping you through this difficult time. He loved you all so much, but you already know that too.
on Saturday, March 22nd, Jeanette said
Every year on this day, Rock and I would wish each other a 'happy wedding day'.. We were married in Vienna, and so to accomodate peoples' travel schedules we had our wedding Easter weekend. First we were married on April 8 at the 'Standesamt' (city hall) and then April 10 in the church. We therefore have two anniversaries, and this date was usually acknowledged as a third.
Rock spent our wedding morning being a gracious host to our visitors, taking them to the flea market, touring them around the 'Ring', all cheerfully, knowing that he had so many other things he could be doing.
Our friends Mary and Dave gave us our reception in their beautiful flat, and then we drove (in Woody and Ingrid's borrowed car) to a nearby town and spent our wedding night at an old Post Office that had been converted to an inn. We walked through the deserted town on Easter morning and listened to the church bells ring. It was magical, as was the following 14 years, 11 months.
After 2 kids, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 3 goats, 3 sheep, 2 rabbits, 9 cars, and about 20 guitars, it is way too quiet around here.
on Friday, March 21st, Sabrina said
Rock was a very bright, loving, incredible person. When I first met Rock, I was around 20 yrs old; Easton was just a 1 ˝ yrs old. He and my sister were dating a little while when they came to my house. I thought to my self, my sister is testing her boyfriend if she is bringing him here for the weekend. He passed that test with flying colors! The first thing he did, was pick up my son swung him around in a circle and started singing “Rubber Ducky you’re the one” causing my son to laugh deliriously. Who could resist falling in love with him after that?
He continued to be an inspiring role model for my children, teaching them through example what a real father is. Having them grow up under his influence has caused me to hope that instead of my daughters finding a husband just like their Dad, I pray they find someone just like their Uncle.
Rock spent so much time researching everything, from the time his daughter was diagnosed with Autism to his own cancer; he never accepted the answers the Dr’s gave him. He had a need to find out why, what can prevent it, and why aren’t we preventing it? This is what started the blog. Why did a man at his age with no history in his family, who never smoked, exercised regularly, and ate healthy, get colon cancer? The search to answer that question and the realization of what has happen, got the ball rolling to educate all of us.
Even in the last few days of his life, he showed us humor and selflessness. He demanded that his son watch American Idol at his side in the hospital, after all it was Beatles night and nothing was more important to them than to listen to Beatles songs together. Then came his final message to my sister on her birthday, this is something that will be engraved into my memory forever. It was something that showed his undying love and bond for my sister and touched me deeply.
Rock has written the story of his battle in his blog for the last 2 years, which gave us a look into how truly great he was. The ending to Rock’s story is sad, but the journey was a true life changing experience I will never forget and will always love & thank him for opening my eyes to what life & love is really about. I am a better person because of him. Even through his pain he continued to live his life as he always did, with the ultimate love for his family, the thirst for knowledge and living the fullest life he possibly live.
Uncle Rock you’re the greatest, most loved & respected man we have ever known, we will miss you dearly. Aunt Beena, Easton, Susan & Sierra
on Friday, March 21st, Ellen Damaschino said
I heard an Eagles song on the radio today and thought of Doug, in fact I always think of Doug when I hear an Eagles song. Doug, thank you for being my swim coach, for being a leader and a mentor, for always waving at me from your homemade car as I walked home from high school. You were a class act and your life was obviously well lived and loved.
on Thursday, March 20th, Heather Silva said
I just heard of Mr. Prouty's passing and found my way to this blog.
He was my teacher at Campolindo albout 20 years ago. He was always one of my favorite teachers. He was young and fresh and inspired a love for learning. I remember him being so fun but with boundaries that teenagers really need from adults/authority. He was definately one of the "cool" teachers.
As a cancer survivor myself, his battle with this disease was all too emotionally familiar.
My heart and prayers go out to your family.
Namaste~
Heather (Mackin) Silva
Campolindo - Class of 1990
on Thursday, March 20th, Marcia Russell said
I first met Doug as a teacher when I attended workshops at the County. I then taught Nick in elementary science and finally had the opportunity to work with Doug at the County Office of Ed.
As everyone else has said, Doug was a friend, mentor, and amazing teacher. I have spoken to people who barely knew Doug, and yet we all share the same awe at his amazing persona.I agree with Sandy that I hope this Blog will remain open and hopefully provide occasional updates on the family.
A few people have also suggested publishing this Blog as a book. I have experience in the publishing industry and just helped a school publish a book for a scholarship fundraiser. If you ever consider doing this, I'm more than happy to contribute my time, expertise and contacts. Doug has taught us all so much in his courageous battle, and he will continue to do so in the future.
on Thursday, March 20th, Mary and Dave said
Dearest Jeanette,
We read and re-read the outpouring of love for our pal. Where to begin....the two of you are so generous, so unselfish and in the moment with each of us. So very rare were the two of you together and we got to be a part of that special something, that unconditional love and joy in living. This blog started just about two years ago. Doug patiently walked all of us through his illness. He lived through this passage as he lived everyday of his life, with an earnestness, a deliberate focus and with a deep concern for others. What a privilege to have known him and to know you.
All Our Love,
Dave and Mary
on Thursday, March 20th, Mike said
Hello Jeanette and friends of Doug
Since I will not be able to make Doug's memorial service, I hope you do not mind if I post my thoughts about how much Doug meant to me here.
Doug, buddy, you werent suppose to go, I thought sure you would make it through like you always did and continue to make us laugh, think, live our lives to the fullests. I know one day I shall see you again and share again the good times.
Doug and I were co-workers for seven years, but he was more than a co-worker to me, he was my friend. I want to share with all of you how Doug Prouty touched my life. When I bought a condo and needed help moving, Doug was the only person that said yes and he sweated with me as we moved beds and other furniture up a flight of stairs. When I got divorced and Doug knew I was trying to be a good father and wanted to spend time with my two daughters, Doug offered his cabin in the mountains so we could enjoy a weekend away from the city and just have time for us. Doug and I use to be partners in an investment club and he found out that one of my passions is life is being a Green Bay Packer fan...so for my birthday one year, Doug gave me a bobble head Brett Farve for my desk. I have it still today and am looking at it right now. When I got married and Doug found out my new bride did not speak any english, he gave me an electronic translator for her to make her life easier. When he found out we were going to Rome for our honeymoon, he gave me travel books on Rome and Italy. When I was laid off from CCCOE and was looking for a job, Doug gave me support by writing a letter of recommendation and it is partly because of his support I have the job I do and am living in Europe, something we use to talk about and how much we enjoyed living here. A day does not go by when I hear his voice in my head saying be better, you can do better than that live.
Rock, you touched my life in so many ways, just saying Thank you is not enough. I miss you Doug, my life is less because you are no here anymore. I will never forget all you gave to me buddy. Be at Peace..until we meet again.
Shalom.
Mike Herbst
on Wednesday, March 19th, wendy emegokwue said
Ms Prouty. I'm very sorry for your's & Nick,Alex lost and I wiches you all the best in life. God give you the gift that everyone want in a partner and that someone thinking and caring about there loveone's well being than there on in life. He came here to do a job and that is what he did to the end of his battled and that is pure and true love.
on Wednesday, March 19th, Jerry Damaschino said
Doug was an inspiration to all who worked and played with him. I had the privilege to swim for, and coach with Doug; but outside the pool he taught me to drive a car, brew beer, let my hair down, and be responsible all at once. Actually, the ignition didn’t work correctly on the station wagon, so we just kept taking the car until he taught us to drive. He will be fondly remembered and missed by many.
on Wednesday, March 19th, Deanna (Chiavini) Hogenboom said
I heard of Doug's passing and wanted to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with the Prouty family and friends. Doug was my recreational swim coach and high school asst. coach, mentor and friend. He was very influential to me; he had so many gifts and I learned a great deal about going the extra mile--mainly when I was tired of swimming fly when everyone else was swimming free! Doug taught me to accept challenge and become stronger. I loved playing music with him; I remember playing piano many times while he sang and played guitar. He had so many gifts; he led by example and was such an accomplished athlete and person; I will never forget him. He was wonderful with kids as well; as his assistant coach he taught me about the importance for kids to improve; that winning was just a bonus. I only wish I would have told him this myself as an adult; I'm saying it now so that others will know how much of an influence he was to me and many others. While I do remember some loud and fun times at the Prouty home (Warren and Chris were always so nice to me as well) I mainly remember the gentle and confident side of Doug that I am sure eased the pain for him and others during his illness. He will be missed.
on Wednesday, March 19th, Tasha Forjone said
Hello Jeanette, All of the staff at CEIA send their regards. We were all very touched when he would walk in the door and he and Alex locked eyes! It was an amazing sight to be seen! Please let us know if there is anything that we can help with. Sincerely,
Tasha (CEIA)
on Tuesday, March 18th, Kaki Logan said
I have such great respect and admiration for Doug. I missed him when he left AHS. I did all I could to keep him in Martinez, ;-) but I know so many benefited from his work at the county. Jeanette, I wish you comfort and peace in your deep sadness. What a wonderful man is Doug.
Kaki Logan
on Tuesday, March 18th, Tim said
I keep getting great emails about Doug and thought I should share a few here. I have not asked permission from each person to post their comment so I will remove the author's name. What an amazing guy Rock was and he will continue to inspire us all eternally.
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Doug's a great guy who made us all feel important when we were around him. He'll be greatly missed.
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It is a privilege and my pleasure to know a man who could look into the eyes of something as intense as his own mortality and keep on singing and smiling.
Thanks Doug for being such a light for us all.
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I hope he will find peace and happy dogs to run with where ever he has gone..
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There could be no better way to have dealt with it than the marvelous way you guys did, the trip to Europe, everything. May your grieving be short and your celebration of his life be forever.
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What a mark he left on so many people. We have lost a truly gifted educator.
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I don't remember meeting him, but I have read his blog off and on and have been awed by his optimism, his energy, his focus and broad view of life. What a gift he gave all of us, to chronicle his illness and his unique way of dealing with his fate.
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I only knew Doug
5 years and he was always a funny and dear man. I am lucky I was able to have known him.
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I had only met Doug a few times and his kindness and vision have left a great impact on me
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I just read every one of his blog entries back through 10/2007 (I'll get to the rest later on) and can't help but think that they should be published into a book.
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on Tuesday, March 18th, Sarah and Addison said
Hi Jeanette,
As I am sure Rock is of absolute peace, in the most wonderful place (one could only imagine), Addi and I are sending you, Nick and Alex thoughts of peace during such an overwhelming time. I truly admire your families courage and love for one another.
I gave Rock a silver ring for his Birthday with the sign of eternity on it. If the ring is still in your posession, it would mean a lot to us if you could give the ring to Nick with a message:
"I hope this ring will help you to remember that even though in life things we love leave us, it is only from the body that they are gone. Our connection to the soul is for eternity, it never leaves. I know it's hard to to believe something most of us cannot remember, but have faith that eventually we all reunite and in short, know this....
"it never ends"
This is,of course, at your descretion Jeanette.
I had a hard time trying to decide whether or not I would go to the hospital last week and some part of me felt as if it was awkward to go and say goodbye. The one thing that would have changed that for me was if they would have let Addison go in for Rock to see him once more. I think children have the most amazing energy and pure love about them and I would have like to have shared that with Rock. Unfortunatley ,they we pretty strict about children this young not visiting the ICU, which is understandable. The night before Rock passed I spent some time thinking of him and sending him peace, as I am sure that all the goodbyes must have been hard for him and those who went. It made me feel a sense of serenity after reading your blog that kindly stated your decision to just hold his hand with Nick at his side. I believe you both made it possible for him to be at peace as he left.
Rock is in a beautiful place filled with green grass and colorful flowers. It's warm there so he's not cold anymore, and he's found Peace. I believe this with all of my heart and soul.
on Tuesday, March 18th, Mike Herbst said
Hello Jeannette
I am still in shock over losing Doug. He was so accomplished and such a great man, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the children.
I read the last post from Sandra about the blog and keeping it going. I had another thought and I talked to Doug about this (I was sure he would make it and could do this himself) but once all is settled, perhaps you might think about turning the blog into a book about Doug's courageous battle and publish it and use the proceeds for a scholarship in Doug's name.
Just idea, but he was such an advocate for education.
Take Care,
Mike in Brussels
on Monday, March 17th, sando said
Happy Birthday Jeanette! Thanks so much for posting this to the blog – this entry was so bittersweet to read (cannot tell you how many times I went back & reread). I hope you are thinking about continuing this avenue of communication to keep us updated on how you and the kids are doing – it is in my routine to check this site and I am not ready to kick the habit and I know that I am not alone…
on Monday, March 17th, Dana Loeffler said
It has been a while since I have seen the Prouty family but I can certainly tell you that Doug, Jeanette, Nick, and Alex - you are and will continue to be an amazing family that's love, strengh, and dedication knows no bounds. I am fortunate enough to see Alex regularly and she is a constent reminder of Doug and Jeanette's positive outlook on life.
Doug will forever be a part of Jeanette, Nick, and Alex's journey as they will continue to be with him through his!
With respect and warm thoughts, Dana
on Sunday, March 16th, Kelly Legaspi (Evans) said
Dear Prouty Family,
I am a former Campolindo High School student/swimmer (85-89). I was also in Doug's Geometry class.
First, I would like to extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to your family and friends.
Second, I would like to mention that Doug was an outstanding teacher and coach.
Regarding math, he is the ONLY teacher that taught me to enjoy the subject.
As a coach, he was fun, challenging and very competitive. To this day, I still use his meditation techniques when I am anxious or stressed. (childbirth)(Crisis at work-I am a Recovery Room R.N.)
I can hear his calming voice say, "as you exhale, feel the stress leave your body. It travels down your neck and into your shoulders, past the triceps and biceps and into your forearm, past your wrist and into your fingers and as it leaves your body your will be completely relaxed." The mediation and relaxation would take about 10-15 minutes and at the end I was so totally relaxed
I would fall asleep.
I was self motivated in the pool, but the classroom was just the opposite. One day, I failed a math test and Doug made me stay after class. He said, "Kelly, it's fine and dandy that you competed in the Olympic trials and are one of the top swimmers in the nation, but if you can't put forth the same effort in the classroom that you put in the pool, your full swimming scholarship is going to be given to someone who can succeed at both."
To make a long story short, I graduated from the University of Miami with a full swimming scholarship.
I am a nurse and my husband is an Oncology Surgeon, so I have first hand experience in supporting those battling such an ugly disease.
I seldom feel sorrow that reaches the core of my body, but after reading ALL of the entries, I find myself numb with sorrow.
I will certainly pass on what I have learned from Doug.
I believe his mental toughness and supportive family/friends allowed him to surpass his doctors expectations. It was an uphill battle and he fought it better than anyone I know.
Sincerely,
Kelly Legaspi (Evans)
on Sunday, March 16th, Mischa said
Jeanette,
Taha said it perfectly...the few times I have spent time with you I have been in awe of your solidness and love...and I love your sense of humor!! I hope you are finding time to both laugh and cry and hope you will let us know if there is anything we can do for you or Nick or Alex.
With love,
Mischa
on Sunday, March 16th, Taha said
Jeanette,
From the few times I've been with you, I felt the exceptional bond you all have. Your family is a pure & true symbol of exceptional love, devotion, commitment, strength, and unconditional love.
You are an inspiration!!!
God bless your beautiful family.
Love,
Taha
Let us know if we can of any help in this hard time.
on Saturday, March 15th, Leslie Werosh said
Your family is such a beautiful example of love and strength. I can't help but smile each time I remember one particular afternoon when Doug came to see Alex at ABC. Their interaction was one of pure joy, love, and excitement and I felt so lucky to have the pleasure of not only witnessing that, but truly feeling all the love that radiated from their encounter. All of us at ABC and CAF were deeply saddened when we heard of Doug's passing. We are all so glad to have had the opportunity to know such an amazing man. God bless your family.
on Saturday, March 15th, Mia said
My mother was in with Rock when he was giving Uncle Jay the note for your gift. She told me that story a few days ago and it made me cry. It shows what a caring, loving person Rock was. More importantly it shows how much he loved you. That is an amazing gift. Not many people get to share such a strong love, married or not. That is a gift to treasure.
All my thoughts are still with you all. Much love.
on Saturday, March 15th, Jeanette on behalf of Rick Gunn said
I recieved this note in my email from my cousin, Rick Gunn, who is referenced on a link on the home page of this blog. He left on July 4, 2005 and has circled the globe on his bicycle.
Morning all. Aloha from the Valley Isle of Maui.
Just felt the need to write after Rock's passing.
I guess I just wanted to comment on the incredible
strength jeanette and Rock have displayed during this
last two and a half years since I have been away. A
strength, I have reminded her, that has inspired me
through the darkest of moments of this journey again
and again.
And in his passing--and although we had only met a
handful of times--comes that familiar feeling of loss,
accompanied by the recognition of a life lived well; a
shining being, glowing with life and love, a sorrow,
inspiring me to a new appreciation for each and every
new day.
And in my book of memories, in the deepest corridors
within my heart, I see him too riding his bicycle,
smiling in the sunshine, and within that place he will
now forever reside.
And so it is, that on the 18th of March, I return to
North America after 24,0301 miles and 33 countries, I
will dedicate the last 1000 miles of this journey to
Rock, and the short, yet profound influence he has had
in my life.
It is with great love and admiration that I write this.
Mahalo.
