Dick's obituary
God gathered Richard Philip Monaco, 82, of Ormond Beach, FL. in his arms on June 14th 2024. Dick, lovingly known to family and friends, was born February 3, 1942 to Agnes and Ralph Monaco Sr. of Flushing NY. He enjoyed childhood with brothers, Ralph Jr. and Robert fishing, boating and boxing. Dick attended Flushing High School, where he met his first wife, Marge, with whom he shared three sons. He attended Queens College, joined the US Army and proudly served as MP. Dick later enjoyed a career in banking. He was featured in a local bank commercial where his line was, "I feel good when I give my customers a bonus rate on CD's". We laughed over his acting outtakes but were very proud of him. He retired after over three decades in banking.
Dick’s sons feel especially proud their father never missed their basketball games when they were young. He coached little league and always made time to take his boys to a Yankee or Islander's game. He would say, "work hard, play hard". He shared stories about his own Dad, gave sage advice like "everything in moderation”, "happiness is like a butterfly” and "always keep tic tacs and toothpicks in your car and don't eat spinach for lunch in a business setting."
In 1981, Dick married his devoted wife, Janice, of forty three years. They laughed often and were inseparable. They shared a home in Commack, NY enjoying many family holidays before moving to Florida. They loved Sanibel Beach, cooking together and always had music playing through the house. Sailing and cruise vacations were cherished. Dick always had a loyal dog by his side. He loved to golf with friends and read books about history. Seinfeld was his favorite sitcom and as Janice would say, "any kind of ball game, the ball shape just changed with seasons.” Dick was a New York sports fan. He fondly remembered rushing home after school for a bowl of ice cream to watch the Yankee game.
Dick built a cabin in Big Canoe GA. It was a dream of his to have rooms for his sons and their families to stay often. He took daily Jeep rides and hikes with his favorite dog, Wally. There was a bubbling creek down below his porch where he made his famous "beer can" chicken. Many memories were made there. He could often be found in his recliner dozing off to golf on TV. Another of Dick’s dreams came to fruition when he celebrated his 70th birthday in Duck, N.C. in a rented beach house with his whole family. There were savory meals, many photos and poolside splashes. It was a memorable week where Dick’s jovial laugh echoed far. Family meant everything to him. He was quick with a joke and kind and friendly to all, no matter whether a waiter, or senator.
Dick was predeceased by his parents, brother, Carmine and brother in law, Dr. Block. He is survived by his brother, Robert, (John), sisters in law, Louise, Patsy, loving sons, Ken (Jeannie), Andy (Krys), Greg (Sari), Grandchildren, Trina (Landon), Kenny (Kayla), Ashley, Gianna, Nicholas, Richie, Talia (Chris), Jory, and his great grandchildren, Liam, Rayden, Isla. He was a caring Uncle to Susan, Steve and Carol. Dick admired his brother, Ralph deeply and while Dick was in Hospice, his brother suffered an unexpected medical event and passed away mere days after him. Aunt Louise was not surprised and even predicted "these two brothers who love each other very much are going to make this journey together"
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Halifax Hospice, Ormond Beach.