Donald J. Monaco

Donald Monaco, age 90, of Wilmington, DE, passed away suddenly on September 5, 2025, at Christiana Hospital, with his devoted daughter by his side.
A proud graduate of Wilmington High School (Class of 1952), Donald went on to serve his country in the United States Army, stationed in Germany from 1957 to 1960. It was there he met the love of his life, Anneliese Ruban. He later earned a Master's degree in Chemistry from the University of Delaware in 1965 and began his career at Hercules Research Center.
Driven by a passion for education, Donald returned to school to earn his teaching credentials in 1968. He spent three decades inspiring students at Delcastle Technical High School, where he taught Chemistry and 9th Grade Exploratory. His dedication extended beyond the classroom-he served as the Chief GED Examiner for the State of Delaware, offering instruction and testing through the James H. Groves School and state correctional facilities until his retirement in 2008.
Donald was also a successful entrepreneur, owning The Nova Motel in Wildwood, NJ, where his family's business journey began.
A man of many talents, Donald was a gifted cook known for his legendary cheesecake, apple strudel, Italian wedding soup, and eggnog. His love for culinary arts led him to attend the Culinary Institute of America for two summers-he often joked that he had "joined the CIA." He also enjoyed ballroom dancing and had an adventurous spirit, traveling extensively to places such as Africa, Italy, Prague, Spain, Portugal, Egypt, Greece, and Mongolia, where he met his companion, Patricia Erickson.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Antonio and Gulia Monaco; siblings Anthony Monaco, Jack Monaco, Jeanette Szostak, Chenz DiMattia, Dora Brown; and his beloved wife, Anneliese. He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Monaco, and her companion Dennis Filliben; his brothers Albert Monaco; David Monaco and wife Judy; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13th from 2 P.M. to 3 P.M. with funeral services to begin at 3 P.M. at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808.
In lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be made in Donald's memory to the American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Mealey Funeral Home for their compassionate support. The Celebration of Life ceremony will be broadcast live and can be accessed via the link on their website www.mealeyfuneralhomes.com