Ernest J. Monroe, 85
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Ernest James Monroe, 85, of 194 Water St. died Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield after a period of declining health.
Born in Williamstown on June 20, 1924, son of Ernest George and Blanche Maynard Monroe, he attended Williamstown schools and graduated from the former Williamstown High School.
An Army veteran of World War II, he served with Company A, 280th Engineer Combat Battalion. At the end of the war, he was assigned to the removal of the gas pipeline from Cherbourgh to Paris. Upon its completion, he enlisted for another year to be with his German wife, the former Liselotte Kurzschenkel, and daughter, Edith, and transferred to the 485th Engineer Heavy Equipment Company as a machinist. He was awarded the World War II Victory, Battle of the Bulge, Cold War, American Campaign, Occupational Service WWII and Good Conduct medals and the European, African, Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze battle stars.
Mr. Monroe was employed both before and after the war by the former General Cable Corp. and its predecessor, Cornish Wire Co., for 43 years, retiring in 1990.
He was a member of the Cornish Wire Quarter Century Club and the Fabulous Forties Williamstown High School Alumni Association. He was a life member of Richard A. Ruether American Legion Post 152 and a founding and life member of VFW Post 8304. He was a proud and willing participant of the military funeral detail, serving in its rifle division.
He enjoyed nature walks, gardening, travel and dining out. He had a love for all animals and shared a special bond with his cat, FaYing, with whom he is being reunited. His family described him as a gracious, gentle man with a great smile, who was loved and respected by many.
His wife died June 8, 1994.
He leaves two daughters, Edith Betti Monroe, with whom he made his home, and Doris Rita Tondreau and her husband, Paul, of Williamstown; a sister, Helen Havelin of Mississippi; two grandsons, Erik Tondreau of Lee and Ryan Tondreau of North Adams, and nieces and nephews.
A sister, Anna Maynard, predeceased him.
FUNERAL NOTICE — At his request, there will be no calling hours. Mr. Monroe will be cremated. Graveside services with full military honors will take place at Eastlawn Cemetery in Williamstown at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Berkshire Humane Society or to Friends of Renal Dialysis in care of Flynn and Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapels, 521 West Main St., North Adams, MA 01247, which is in charge of arrangements.