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Monica Zajanc Obituary

A celebration of the Life of Monica Lee Zajanc, who left us on Sunday, Aug. 13, 2006, will be held Saturday, Aug. 19 in McCall, Idaho,at the University of Idaho Field Camp. The Memorial Ceremony will begin at 4 p.m. Friends and family are invited to join in remembering "MO" and sharing the love and friendship she gave us all.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Idaho Statesman on Aug. 16, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Monica Zajanc

Sponsored by Jared Fisher.

Not sure what to say?





Neener Zajanc Murphy

December 10, 2024

Hey Monica, getting close to Christmas. I was thinking about you and Bubba.
Just wanted to give you both a shout out and sending hugs!
Love you both.
Neener

Lisa

August 10, 2024

Love that girl. Always will. Always in my heart and thoughts. She was so special. I have no doubt that she is an inspiration and light to all of those with her in heaven.

L

August 10, 2022

Moni,
You are missed and thought of.

Krassel time out

Nolene Hollifield

July 25, 2019

August 13, 2014

Dear sweet Monica: You loved the world and the world loved you. Still see u in sweet Azia in so many mannerisms, expressions, yet she's still uniquely and sweetly her own young woman. The hurt hasn't faded and the loss remains for all that loved you. You're still a bright and vibrant, resilient, joyous energy in this world and beyond. We will meet again. Your journey has taught us so much. I love you forever and beyond forever. Lisa Zajanc

Lo Williams

February 4, 2014

Hey, Moe--what a tough gal you were. I looked up to you so much out there on the line. I hope you know what an inspiration you are to those who still follow you.

G Freeman

September 8, 2013

Dear Monica,
I had not got the chance to meet u personally but yet I think of you passing on. I pray ur family finds comfort & memories are cherished of u. My condolences, love and respect for u cannot be described in words. U seemed like a strong, beautiful woman inside and out. U are not forgotten. Rest peacefully.

jared fisher

August 15, 2013

Mons, there are so many things I wish I could share with you. I wish my kids would have been able to know you and matt. I miss the both of you so much. I hope that you, matt, and jay are always watching over us and smiling.

Sterling Hill

December 15, 2011

Merry Christmas Monica.

Lisa Zajanc

August 23, 2011

dear monica: you're never away from my thoughts, my love, my hopes and dreams for the family for today and the future. so happy that azia had you in her life for 12 years. she misses you so so much. we all want to see you and hug you and tell you we love you, again

Jared

August 18, 2011

Hey Mons, I find it hard to believe that you were taken from us 5 years ago. I still think about you all the time. I know you are in good company wherever you are, with all the family that has gone before & since. Say hi to Jay & Matt for me. I miss you.

August 15, 2011

Five years, impossible to believe. I miss you my friend, my daughter. We were all there again this year, as we are every year on August 13, to remember the love and laughter... and to raise a toast to you, and Mike, and Lillian, and Quinn. Campfire, beer, stories, Yellowpine karaoke, laughter, remembering... so thankful you were part of our lives.

Erica Hall

August 13, 2011

Missing you girl!

Azia Zajanc

November 18, 2010

Hey Moe! it's been a while now since anyones wrote in this, and i've just always wanted to let you know how much you meant to me and how much you still do now. It's been a little over four years now since you left, and i just wish i could've spent all of these years with you here. I'm getting older now; i only have about a year and a half left of high school, but i just wish i could still grow up with you around and look up to you as my idol like i still do. I'll never forget you. I think about ya everyday, and you have no idea how happy i'll be if i ever get to see u again. you've always been there for me. With everything you ever did for me and helped me with from when i was a little girl until i was 12, please just let me know you're still here...

Karrin Massey

November 3, 2008

Yesterday would have been your birthday, I thought about you all day long. I miss you so much girl. Thank you Jared for leaving this open for us all to share our thoughts.

Jared Fisher

June 12, 2008

Monnie,

Just woke up this morning, thinking about you. All the fun times we shared. I miss you sooo much. My only wish was to have been able to spend more time with you. I have 4 kids now. It's crazy to think that you only saw 2 of them. I know they were with you at one time, & I'm sure you told them to give me hell when they come down here. Haha. Anyways, I miss your smile & your laugh, & I can't wait until the day when I get to see you & Matt again. All my love, Jared.

L Zajanc

October 26, 2007

Dear Darling Baby Girl:

I love you now as much as ever, time doesn't make it easier. Our family won't recover. Came up to see you in September, just found charred shrapnel, a beautiful river and a powerful forest; now I understand why you loved what you did, why you did what you did and how much it defined you. I am so proud that you were always true to your heart.

Love,
Mom (Lisa)

Courntey Anderson

May 4, 2007

Remembering the last time I saw you here on earth--it was at the Boise Airport. You were heading to Reno to see Lakota and I embarrassed you until you were blushing red in the face and you laughed until your beer almost came out of your nose in front of the businessmen in the bar with my hypothesis of the Rigby Social Scene... I love you and miss you sooo much, you beautiful little character, Miss Monica!

Nolene Hollifield

May 3, 2007

Mo,

Not a day, not an hour, not a minute goes by that I do not see your smile, hear your voice, find strength to go on from you. You are still here with me, in my heart, in my soul, in the laughter and tears of those who love and miss you. I am so proud to have been your mother, so lucky to have been able to share this life with you.

All my love forever,

Mom

Karrin Lish-Massey

April 27, 2007

If there is anything I have learned from you passing its how much I miss your smile. Its almost been a year since we were a Darci's hanging by the fire. I am so glad we spent that time together. I miss you so much and think about you everyday. After you passed everyone was so kind,people said I love you more, they made time for each other, and everyone knew that spending time with the ones you love is so important. I hope everyone can learn that time is short so be good to the ones you love and spend everyday like its your last. Love you Moni!

Courtney Anderson

April 26, 2007

There is something about a beautiful sunny spring day that will always remind me of you Miss Monica!

Lisa Zajanc

April 1, 2007

Dear Moni:

I'm trying to get ready for Easter to keep things "up" for Azia. It is so difficult. Every Easter was a family get together at our house. Easter and Thanksgiving, Christmas Day were traditions for us. I miss you and the family more than you can know. There is a light that is gone in this family now. You'll always be my daughter too. We can only wait for our reunion with you and Matt.

Love,
Me (Ririe, ID)

our kids, Nick, Dan, Jordan, Azia, Monica

March 29, 2007

Monica, Nick, brother Jordan and Grandma

March 29, 2007

Azia, Dad and nephew Matthew

March 29, 2007

Lisa

March 29, 2007

Dear Monica:

I cannot express how much you are loved and missed. I yearn for your peace, contentment and joy. How I'll ever accept this I don't know. Please know how much we all love you. You mean so much to this family...take care of Matthew, he was too innocent for this harsh world.
Love,
Lisa

Larry Zajanc

October 13, 2006

It's now been two months since you left us my darling daughter. I miss you more than I can stand! I love you sweetheart!

Jessica Hamilton

October 4, 2006

I can't believe that my Miss Monica is really gone. It seems like just yesterday we were hangin' out. I miss you everyday and say a prayer for you every night. Monica you will always have a special place in my heart, and I am so grateful to call you my friend.

Erica Hall

October 3, 2006

Wow. I just found out about this journal and it is amazing. Monica, you touched so many people's lives in such wonderful ways. I miss you more than you would know. In the past years we were drawn apart by different circumstances in our lives, but you have always been in my mind and in my heart. This is all so surreal. I keep thinking that when I go to Pocatello for Christmas I am going to see you there and it will be like we hadn't skipped a beat. If there is one thing I wish I could have told you it would have been that if not for you, for your couragoeus and spirited attitude, for your "I can do anything I set my mind to" motto, I would not be the person I am today. I would never have moved all the way to Seattle without you having the faith in us that you did. I have never left this area since you and I packed up the Uhaul and the red Sunbird (that later burnt on the side of 405, I believe)and hit the road,and I thank you for helping me have the guts to stay. Being here I have met my wonderful husband, I am almost finished with school and I don't think my life would have been this way had I remained in Pocatello. Monica, you will be missed, and never ever forgotten. I love you, and I am sorry about the stupid fight we had about the nail polish.

Karrin lish

October 3, 2006

There is not a day that goes by that I dont think about Monica. I miss her so much. There is not a place in Pocatello I have been that does not bring back a memory of her. I feel so lucky to have had her in my life. I will always remember the good, not so good and wild times we had.
I would
also like to say to Larry and Dan I love you two more than you know hang in there guys.

Darci Anderson

October 3, 2006

My sister married Monicas father Larry when Monica was 14 and I was 15 years old. From that moment we were like sisters. I recall what a kick she would get out of calling me "Aunt Darci", and so many awesome memories. Monica referred to my parents, Tom and Joyce Anderson as grandma and grandpa, as did her brother Matthew, who was best friends with my brother, Tyler Anderson. I love you Monica, you were the best friend anyone could ask for.You have been there for me through the most trying times, and always had the right thing to say to make me feel better. I'm so honored to have known you, and you have touched my life more than words can say. I love you always.

Lisa Zajanc

September 17, 2006

Beautiful Daughter, Sister and Friend



We, unaccustomed to your courage, your strength lined with tenderness

live coiled in shells of grief



Until your love left it's dance and came into our sight to liberate us into living.



Your comfort arrives and in its wake comes wondererment

old memories of joy

ancient histories of vulnerability



Yet if we are bold

your love strikes away the chains of fear of you leaving our souls behind



We are weaned from our timidity

In the flush of your passing

we dare be brave

We are a softer and more sober people now



Your love costs all we are and will ever be

and for that I am grateful



Love,



(Mom)Lisa

Azia and Monica

August 30, 2006

Lisa Zajanc

August 30, 2006

Dear Daughter:



Today has been another struggle. If only there were words to express how much I love you and miss you still. Dad and I have had nice conversations about you and your journey. I miss your golden hair and skin, your sky blue eyes, your strength, your laughter, your fun. I don't know that I'll ever accept this. I miss your earlthy presence in this family. Azia is my constant companion...she is sad but I'm going to get her through this. She sang a song for you in school today. She has pictures of you in her locker. She wears your jewelry and sleeps with her smokey the bear. It's almost like having you here.Jordan is the quiet man of few words...his hurt is deep for you and Matthew. My comfort is the pure peace and joy that you are experiencing with Matt and your grandparents before you. Please go in peace our darling daughter, sister and friends. We'll keep in touch.



Love,

Lisa

Jodi Bell (Cutler)

August 30, 2006

Dear Ms. Monica,

I cannot even begin to find the words to say on how much all of us already miss you. Im going to miss those phone calls when we would call each other and you would call me "Bell" and I would call you "Ms. Monica". And I am really going to miss our beer drinking times together in Pocatello. It was so nice to be able to call you right before I left Colorado for Pocatello and hear you say "I will meet you there Bell". Im so glad all of us girlfriends had the chance to spend this memorial weekend together in May. I know none of us will ever forget the wild party that went on out at Darci's house. And how much trouble she got in for burning all of Cody's firewood that night!!! I will never forget you girl. I love you and miss you alot! Love, Bell

Jordan Zajanc

August 29, 2006

We will always miss you Monica. You were a wonderful sister and friend to me. I only wish that I could have had more time to get to know you better. It brings me joy to know that you can once again, be with our long-missed brother Matthew in heaven. I love you Monica, and will always miss your laughter.

Arleta McIntyre

August 25, 2006

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006

Sherry Mallard

August 24, 2006

Nolene, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Monica (Mo) was such a remarkable and colorful young lady - she was truly a Gift!



Sherry and Herb

Julie Engleman

August 22, 2006

I worked with Monica at Bogus Basin a few years back and I have been thinking about her a lot over the last week. She was so fun to work with, and for some reason I keep remembering how we would tease her and it was so funny because her face would turn about 3 shades of red and it would always make us laugh. I just wanted to say that I am very sorry that she is gone and my heart goes out to her friends and family.

Linda Storms

August 21, 2006

My son Scott Storms was a very good friend of Monica's and was very broken up when he called me about the news. I felt so bad for him and the family. My thoughts and prayers are will all of you.

Dan and Gerardina Storms

August 20, 2006

Monica was a friend of our son and step-son, Scott. We know how difficult it was to lose such and wonderful and giving person as Monica. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who miss her so dearly. And we know you will keep her memory deep within your hearts.

Katie Mallaburn (Schlekeway)

August 19, 2006

I only met Monica a few weeks ago at a mutual friend's B-day. Even though it was only for a few hours, I was impressed by her spirt, her warmth, and her kindness. There are few people out there who make you say: "Man I really hope I run into them again." Monica was definatley one. To her friends and family, I am truely truely sorry for your loss.

Phil Davis, Valley County Board of County Commissioners

August 19, 2006

Mere words can never adequately express the depth of our gratitude and appreciation for the men and women who risk their lives protecting life, property and the natural resources during wildfire situations. Valley County fully understands and deeply appreciates the extraordinary efforts and personal sacrifices made by Monica and her fellow firefighters. Monica made the ultimate sacrifice and we send our heartfelt condolences to Monica’s family, friends and colleagues.

F. Gerald & Margaret Bench

August 19, 2006

Life is just one small step in our eternal journey.

Cindy Schlager

August 19, 2006

To the family, friends & cousins of Monica, It saddens me to know that I will never get to meet or know my 2nd cousin. I have read and heard so many wonderful things about Monica, that I'm sure she will be missed very much by all. May your memories bring you comfort and know my thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. Love, Cousin Cindy

Jared Fisher

August 18, 2006

"Monnie",



I already miss you more than you know. Your smile every time I saw you. The many talks we shared. All the good times & the (many stitches) you gave me. I know you are in a better place. Give Bubba a hug for me. I love you cous'. Nolene, Larry, & Daniel, I love you too. This isn't the end, it is only the beginning. There are still so many more memories to be made. Let's not waste any time. Love is the most important thing in life. Families are forever.

Lisa Zajanc

August 18, 2006

Deaer Monica:



I cannot express what it meant to me to be your stepmother/friend for 14 years. I loved you as my own. I have missed you and your hearty laughter tremendously. Your smile lit up your face and the entire room. My only comfort is to know that you are with your beloved brother, Matt. Jordan, Azia and I will grieve you forever. We will do our best to look after Dad.



Love Always, Lisa

Lynnette Johnson

August 18, 2006

Nolene, I cannot find the words to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss; I know that Monica was more than a daughter, she was your best friend. You are in my heart and prayers. God will guide you through the pain of your terrible loss. Your Friend Always.

Patty Ely

August 17, 2006

Dear Parents of Monica,

Although I did not know your daughter, my son Preston told me how very special she was to him and how very much he would miss her. As a mother, I feel your pain and grieve with you.

(Left) Monica and Kat (Right)

Kat Ferguson/Bell

August 17, 2006

Monica and I worked and lived together during the 2003 fire season in Warm Lake. We became fast friends and I will always have cherished memories of our girl talks together. She was a great fire fighter and an amazing person. Mo was with me and held my hand during the hardest tribulation of my life and I will always remember her kind heart and encouraging words. “Mo, you will always live on in my heart as being so strong and vibrant. I miss you and I love you.”

Cristina Huot

August 17, 2006

I hadn't seen Monica for a few years but I will never forget what a fun person she was. It was always a treat to be able to see her.

Lanise Herman

August 17, 2006

I met Monica while working with her in the Bogus Basin ticket office. I always looked forward to seeing her smile,and sharing laughs with her. Her quick wit, and sense of humor were refreshing. She always had a smile, no matter what the circumstances, and for that I deeply admired her. The last time I saw her was when I ran into her at a local bar, and we shared a table and played bar trivia. It was a happy night, and we both enjoyed seeing each other again. No matter how long it was between times, we always picked up where we left off. I will miss Monica, and the brilliant light that always shone when she was near. My heart goes out to the family, please know that she was loved by many..

rick & margaret mccoy

August 17, 2006

Family & Friends - we didn't know Monica, but are so grateful to the life she lived & the work that she did. May God grant you peace & comfort beyond all understanding, holding you tightly within His arms thru this difficult time.

Jeff, Jill & Chelsea Boyd

August 17, 2006

We are so saddened to hear of Monica's passing. Larry our hearts go out to you. Monica was a bright and beautiful light in every ones life she touched. God Bless, we are praying for you.

Josh Weishaup

August 17, 2006

I will forever miss your warm smile, amazing personality, and your laughter. Your spirit will live in all our hearts forever. I will always remember and cherish those memories we had together.

Joe Surrusco

August 17, 2006

Our memories of Monica are of a very caring woman with a zest for life and a smile to match. She will be missed, but we know she is in the best of all places. Larry, Nolene, Daniel... everyone else touched by Monica's passing... you are in our prayers. --- The Surrusco and Camper Families

Carrie Kenyon

August 16, 2006

It saddens me that I only met Monica once. It was ten years ago at her Grandma Schaefers house. I remember laughing alot with Monica. I felt like I had known her forever in just one day!"Monica, you were a very courages young woman, May God Bless You Always. Love Cousin Carrie

Marshall & Debbie Steele

August 16, 2006

To the family and friends of Monica, though we did not know Monica, our hearts and prayers go out to all her family and friends. My son and daughter thought so highly of her. A very courageous young lady. She will be greatly missed. God Bless You All.

Margie Hill

August 16, 2006

Cousins & Family,



Monica was a beautiful young woman who loved being with her family and fellow Firefighters. She chose a life skill that saved and preserved so much; be it people, animals or the land she loved. She leaves with all a legacy of serving and protecting "at all cost."



I know God and all of heaven sang for her the day she left us. May her spirit be with us forever.



Cousin's, Margie & Art

Shirley Mills

August 16, 2006

I knew Monica when she was little. I am a friend of Grandma Z's and my heart was saddened when I heard of her passing. God bless you all. She is having an awesome reunion with her Grandparents. An old friend ......Shirley Mills

Dana Hinson

August 16, 2006

For the family of Monica, I knew her for about three years when she came to Garden Valley to be on the engine up here, She came to the bar I worked in and we became over the counter friends, she was very special and full of fire and life, and I am sorry beyond words that she is gone, My heart goes out to you and I am grateful I got to know her a little bit, Sincerly,Dana Hinson

Jan Doyle

August 16, 2006

Mo - My son, Darcey Doyle, thought the world of you. As I spoke with him last night between fires, he was truly sadden. We salute you, Mo. To the ones you left behind - Our heart felt sympathy. Your grief is not alone. Please accept our love and prayers.

Aunt Neener

August 16, 2006

Love You Moni!

Jennifer Berger

August 16, 2006

Family and Friends of Monica- my deepest sympathies to you, and thoughts of comfort at this difficult time. I did not know Monica, but am a fellow firefighter with her (and you) in my prayers... Peace be with you!

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