Michael Angelo Monopoli

August 10, 1936 - December 24, 2025

Michael Angelo Monopoli, affectionately known as Opa, passed away suddenly, but peacefully at home, at the age of 89. Born in the Bronx, NY, his family moved to Ridgefield Park, NJ, where upon graduation, he joined the Air Force in 1955. He was stationed in Prum, Germany, where he met his beautiful wife, Elsbeth Simons – and his bunk mate met her sister, Margaret Simons! Both couples married and they moved their newlywed brides to the United States in 1959.

"Mike" and Elsbeth settled into Township of Washington in 1963 and still lived in their humble home for over 60 years. Together, they built a life full of love, dedication and companionship. He was a committed father to his daughter Patricia, her husband Frank Polise, and son Michael and his wife Catherine (nee Meehan). A proud grandfather to Michael Monopoli, and his wife, Marisa, Daniel Monopoli, Christopher Monopoli, and Olivia Polise. He is also survived by his brother Anthony Monopoli and wife Marion, and his sister, Maria Sedita and husband Augie. He has countless nieces and nephews in both the US and Germany and will be greatly missed by all. He is predeceased by his parents Mauro and Marie (Capuono), his twin sister Jean Koles and brother Barry Monopoli.

Mike worked for Schindler Elevators, in Construction and as a Mechanic as needed, for over 40 years. Both his son Michael and grandson Michael have followed in his footsteps as he was a role model in the industry and paved the way for the "Monopoli" legacy. When he wasn't working – he had a hammer and saw in his hands and could build you whatever you wanted and fix almost anything!

Mike's dedication to his family, his love of Italian culture, German traditions and his steadfast patriotism made him a pillar of his community. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. You might have seen him and his friends in the local bagel store over the last thirty plus years – saying hi to all the patrons and locals.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held on January 10, 2026, at St. Therese Church in Cresskill, New Jersey at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family who wish to honor Mike with a donation, can direct their gifts to Hope for Heroes or Wounded Warriors.

Donate Here: https://www.heroeshope.org or https: www.woundedwarriorproject.org

May he rest in eternal peace