James Henry Monaco

James Henry Monaco passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, at the age of 85, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 23, 1939, in Lorain, Ohio, Jim was raised in a tight-knit Italian family that instilled in him strong values and a deep appreciation for his heritage. He was the second of three siblings, with an older brother, Anthony, and a younger brother, Bill. Jim was nine years old, when his family moved to California, where his academic abilities, particularly in mathematics, were quickly recognized. Jim earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from UCLA, then a master's degree in business administration from the University of Tennessee.

In the United States Navy, Jim first served as a Lieutenant in the Seabee's of the Civil Engineer Corps at Port Hueneme, California. He was then promoted to the role of instructor in atomic, biological, and chemical warfare, participating in command training exercises throughout the country. His service fostered the values of hard work, discipline, and camaraderie that he carried with him throughout his life.

Following his service in the Navy, Jim's passion for medical research and technology led to a lifelong career that began at EG&G ORTEC. He later joined CTI, Inc., the company responsible for the development and commercialization of positron emission tomography (PET), an innovation that revolutionized diagnostic medicine. Excelling at CTI, he later served as President and Founder of both CTI Services and PETNet Pharmaceuticals.

Jim was married to Loretta for 60 years. He was a loving father to their two children, John and Maria. He was an avid golfer, movie-goer, artist, and he especially enjoyed annual trips to Las Vegas with his family; however, his greatest joy came from his role of "Papa" to his grandchildren and great-grandson.

Jim's life will be remembered for his intellect, his wit, his generosity, and his devotion to family.

Predeceased by his parents, Anthony Peter and Mary, as well as his brother, Anthony John, Jim leaves behind a loving family including his wife, Loretta; son, John Monaco (Gina); daughter, Maria Karr (David); grandchildren Alexandra Jones (Mitch), Dominic Karr, Michael and David Monaco; great-grandson, Hudson Jones; brother, William Monaco (Victoria), and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be held at Saint Benedict Catholic Church, 11045 Parsons Road, Johns Creek, Georgia on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 10:30 am, with a luncheon immediately following at Sugo, 10305 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
On-line condolences may be expressed at www.crowellbrothers.com. Arrangements entrusted to Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 5051 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. 770-448-5757.