Mike Monaco

MISSOULA - On Monday, Feb. 2, 2009, Mike Monaco gave one last squeeze to his lady’s hand and took his final journey.





Mike began his 96-year-life journey September. 26, 1912, in Cantalupo, Italy, born to Antonio Monaco and Loreta DiToro Monaco.





In 1929, on his next journey, Mike followed his father’s lead, and at the young age of 16, boarded a ship called the Augustus and sailed for America. Once back on firm ground, he boarded a train and made his way to St. Regis, where he was promptly put to work for the Milwaukee Railroad.





He was responsible for the tracks from Avery, Idaho, to Bonner, along the way, living in exotic places like Tarkio and Bryson. Mike was a hard working railroader and for 47 years he made sure the train was always running on time. Mike was recently honored as a 60-year member of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Union.





In 1936, he began what would be his most cherished journey. While at the home of a friend and co-worker, he met the love of his life Rosina Martello. At the time they met Rose was only 14, so being the gentleman that he was, Mike waited until she turned 16 before asking her father for her hand in marriage. On October. 1, 1938, they united and recently celebrated 70 wonderful years together. To this union came five children.





Mike was known for his carpentry skills and his green thumb. His learned his precise measuring skills and meticulous craftsmanship while growing up in Italy, where he built coffins for his village. When he and Rose finally settled in their permanent home in Missoula, he found a yard with two large garden spots. Every year neighbors could count on receiving the fruits, vegetables and garlic of his labor.





Following the phases of the moon, Mike knew exactly when to plant and harvest the largest garlic you had ever seen, some single heads weighing in at 1 pound. When it was dried and ready, he delivered it to friends and family all over town.





Mike’s love for his God and his church began as an altar boy in Italy. His faith continued and was shown in many ways over his 40 years as a member of St. Anthony Parish. Mike contributed many hours ordering and making candles, serving as Eucharistic minister, or helping out in whatever needed to be done.





Mike was preceded in death by his parents, brother Arthur, sister Mary, and son Michael Jr.





He is survived by his wife, Rose; sons, Carmen (Gay) of Tennessee and Tony (Gina) of Arizona; daughters, Angie and Jean, both of Missoula; daughter-in-law, Janice Monaco of Oregon; grandchildren, Brenda (Chip) Ayers, Collette (Tim) Smith and Janine Monaco, all of Oregon, Brandy Monaco and Tony (Glenda) Monaco II of Arizona, Tawnya Monaco of Colorado, and Michael Monaco of Missoula; sister, Nickey Vittoria of Oregon; eight great-grandchildren, numerous sisters and brothers-in-law; nieces and nephews.





Viewing will be at 6 p.m., Friday, Feb. 6, at Garden City Funeral Home, with a vigil to follow at 7 p.m. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, in St Anthony Parish with a reception to follow in the community room. Graveside services will follow the reception at the New St. Mary’s Cemetery Annex.





In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Anthony Parish, Partners Hospice, or the charity of your choice in Mike’s name.





Thank you, Mike, for all your knowledge and love n we will love you forever.






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