Joseph A. Monaco

Joseph Anthony Monaco Sr., age 84, of Monroe, passed away peacefully on August 20th surrounded by his loving family. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Lawrence Monaco and Rose Russo Monaco, Joe led a life filled with love, dedication, and cherished memories.

Joe was a devoted husband to his wife of 63 years, Mary Ann. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect. Together, they created a beautiful family legacy. He is survived by his wife, sister Antoinette "Honey" & husband Anthony "Tony" (Tartaglia), five children: Loretta & husband Robert (Peel), Joseph Jr. & wife Rose, Lawrence & wife Barbara, Lynn & husband Ed (Philbin) and Debra (Olson) & wife Maureen (Melleky); 12 grandchildren: Angela & husband Dave (McCarten), Joseph III, Ashley & husband Bryan (Colella), Bianca & fiancé Mike (Capozzi), Bryan, Austin & wife Alex, Lorenzo, David & fiancé Julia, Daniel, Alivia, Mikayla, and Isabella; and 3 great grandchildren: David Jr., Madison and Grace. All of whom he adored and who will deeply miss him.

Outside of immediate family Joe and his wife Mary had many "adopted children". They had an open-door policy for anyone needing their help and support. They loved and adored everyone who walked into their home.

Joe attended Fairfield Prep and furthered his education at Fairfield University, laying the foundation for a life of hard work and commitment. After graduation, he spent many years at Avco Lycoming, where his professionalism and dedication were highly valued. In the 70's, Joe started Mon-Tar Builders with his brother-in-law Tony (Tartaglia), building many homes and businesses in the town of Monroe. In the 80's he began Monaco Excavation, eventually co-owing and working beside his two sons for over 40 years.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joe had a vibrant and full life. He was a passionate fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants, finding joy in following their games and sharing that enthusiasm with half the family, while engaging in a spirited rivalry with the other half. Joe also cherished time spent at his and Mary's Florida house, where they enjoyed hosting family and friends--creating lasting memories with them and a scotch by his side.

Throughout his life, Joe's warmth, wisdom, and generosity touched the hearts of many. He was known for his strong character, unwavering support for his family, and his kind spirit. His legacy will live on through family and all who loved him.

Joe had strong faith and was a member of St. Jude’s Parish in Monroe, helping to build the church in 1987. He made long lasting connections, including his friendships with Monsignor Sabia, Father Bob, Father Skip, and the late Father Futi. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Blessed Sacrament Food Pantry on Union Ave in Bridgeport (blessedsacramentbpt.org)

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Jude’s Parish in Monroe, CT on Tuesday, August 27 at 10am. Burial will be held immediately after at Gate of Heaven Cemetary in Trumbull, CT. If you cannot attend Mass, please join the family for a celebration of life at Fairfield Theater Company, 70 Sanford St. Fairfield, CT from 12pm-6pm.