Joseph Monfreda

Joseph “Giuseppe” Monfreda, born on February 2, 1948, in Casamassima, Italy passed away September 30, 2024. Joseph Monfreda was a son of Vincenzo Monfreda and Lucia Vita Monfreda (née Radogna). He immigrated to the United States at the young age of 16 with his parents. One of his proudest accomplishments was mastering the English language, followed by obtaining his U.S. citizenship on March 13, 1970. 

He proudly served his country in the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged. 

Joseph’s career was marked by many diverse experiences in the food and restaurant business. He enjoyed a successful career as a regional corporate manager for Kentucky Fried Chicken in upstate New York. He continued on to find a passion and love for baking and went on to be a co-owner of Ethan Allen Bake Shop, in Burlington, Vermont, with his brother Donald, where serving his community brought him fond memories. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joseph was passionate about sports. He was a devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins, with a unique fondness for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Joseph also had a deep love for bowling, fishing, and skiing—whether on water, snow, or the sea. He took great pride in providing opportunities for his daughters to learn and enjoy these activities alongside him. 

 Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Dianne) Monfreda of Fort Mill, South Carolina , their beloved dog BB, and his four daughters: Heather Lucia Monfreda Rypien and her husband Andrew Rypien of Denver, North Carolina; Kathy Chiara O’Farrell of Cornelius, North Carolina; Kellie Ann Monfreda and her partner Rob Shepard of Milton, Vermont; and Mistie Lynn Monfreda of Colchester, Vermont. He was a proud grandfather to Zachary Rypien, Jacob Rypien, Kelsey Jenkins, Maggie O’Farrell, Abbie O’Farrell, Kameron Tandy, Keegan Bushey, Sydney Shepard, Shaye Shepard, Tyler James Shepard, Dylan Martin, and Devan Martin, as well as a great-grandfather to Ashlynn and several nieces and nephews. Joseph is also survived by his former spouse and lifelong friend, Cheryl Hart of Denver, North Carolina. 

 Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Vincenzo and Lucia, as well as his brothers Pasquale, Stefano, Donato, and his sisters Margherita, Angela, Carmella, Cecilia, and Mellina. He is survived by his sister, Chiara Beaudette of Milton, Vermont, and his brother, Vito Monfreda of Acquaviva, Italy.

 Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 8th 5pm-7pm in the Minor Funeral Home, Milton. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday October 9th at 11am in St Ann Church Milton, burial to follow in St Ann Cemetery.