Joseph Rocco Monarco, Jr. passed away on March 23, 2015 at home after a lengthy illness. He was 89.
He was born on June 29, 1925, to Tomasina and Joseph Monarco, Sr. He had five brothers Carmen (Nancy) Adolf (Mary Grace), Charlie (Mary Rose)and Tommy (Dolly) and Pascale (who died at birth). He had three sisters Mary (Tony) Caputo, Angie (Gene) Laner and Lucy (Chuck) Antista.
He attended and graduated from Hoehne High School in 1943.
Joe proudly served in the United States Navy 1943-1946 in Fairgood, Idaho, Bremington, Washington, Seattle, Washington and San Francisco, California. He was processed through Treasure Island for his Pacific assignment and assigned to serve aboard the USS St. Lo (CVE-63).
On October 25,1944, the ship was hit by the very first Kamikaze Pilot and sank. He was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart.
On September 27, 1947, Joseph was united in marriage to Ella Marie Antista. She preceded him in death on Mother’s Day, May 13, 2007, four months short of their 60th Anniversary.
He was employed with Santa Fe Railroad 1956-1960 with the Paint and Bridge gang, Standard Paint & Glass from 1960-1978 and then at Trinidad State Junir College from 1978 until his retirement in 1988.
Joseph enjoyed being outdoors, working in the yard, his vegetable garden, family, friends, gambling, painting and food. He used to say; “Italians don’t eat till we’re full, we eat till we’re tired.”
He is survived by his three sons, Anthony, Joe (Diane) and Robert (David), Brother Tommy, Sister Lucy, Sisters in laws, Mary Rose Monarco, Lizzie Antista, Mary Antista and Dawn Antista. Grandson Damon Monarco and numerous nephews, nieces and wonderful friends also survive.
At his request cremation has taken place. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2015 with Rosary at 9AM at the Comi Chapel followed by the Funeral Mass at 10AM at Holy Trinity Church.
Inurnment will follow at the Trinidad Catholic Cemetery with graveside services conducted by the US Naval Honor Guard.
Persons wishing to do so may make contributions to the Sangre de Cristo Hospice.
Arrangements made under the direction of the Comi Funeral Home.
