Richard J. Monis

Richard J. Monis

October 7, 1936 - November 10, 2022

 

Richard “Dick” Monis passed away peacefully after a short but formidable battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was a kind, courageous, and selfless soul that worked hard, played hard, and consistently provided a stable and bright guiding light for family, friends, and associates alike. He will be sorely missed, never forgotten, and waiting for us to rejoin him.

Dick was born in New York, NY and spent his formative years in Fall River, MA where he graduated from Bradley Mathew Chandler Durfee High School in 1954. He then attended Bradford Durfee College of Technology (now University of Massachusetts Dartmouth) where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering in 1958. His early professional contributions were in the design of measurement and stimulus instrumentation and as technical staff at the RCA Computer Systems Division developing control systems and data loggers for the steel and power industries.

During his more than 50 years of significant contribution to commercial, space, and defense industries, Dick held key staff, executive, and board positions leading efforts in engineering, program management, and new business development. His efforts and leadership in support of the US Space Program and Department of Defense were instrumental to the delivery of several advanced mission and sustainment systems critical to the success and survivability of US astronauts, soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines.

In 1957, Dick married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Elder and is survived by her. He is also survived by their three children, David (Patty) Monis, Susan (George) Schissel, and Michael (Edna) Monis; and his loving sister Pat (Phil) Hampton. He is predeceased by his brother John Patrick Monis; and his loving parents John Tavares Monis and wife Helen Lenihan Monis.

A mass in celebration of Dick’s life will be held at 11am on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 720 12th Street, Clermont, FL 34711. A family only viewing will be held from 5-7pm on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at the Becker Funeral Home, 806 W. Minneola Avenue, Clermont, FL 34711. Questions can be directed to 352-394-7121

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation in Dick’s name. www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org