John Monico

John E. Monico – 1924-2021 – age 96. ‘To love and be loved is the greatest joy on earth’. Our beautiful father took his last breath on earth and joined the angels and saints on Monday, Jan. 18 due to complications from Covid.

John was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Angelo Monico. He was also pre-deceased by the first love of his life, Mary Jo Monico, in 1985. He is survived by his children John Monico, Ed and Linda Monico, Bette Anne and Jerry Gaube, Mary Therese and Larry Ostanek, and Tom and Mary Monico. John is also survived by the second love of his life, Marcella Monico and was blessed with numerous, loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved him very much.

John is also predeceased by stepsons, Ed and Jerry Paradysz; stepdaughter, Deborah Ingraham; step grandsons, Brett and Douglas Shepardson. He is survived by stepdaughters, Christine and John Varvaro and Shirley and Roger Holmes; Stepdaughter-in-law, Tina Paradysz.

John spent his early years on Liberty Street in Binghamton and graduated from St. Paul’s high school. He proudly joined the United States Coast Guard at age 18, serving during WWII transporting soldiers across the Pacific. Upon his discharge he met Mary Jo Armstrong and they married in 1949. John graduated from St. Bonaventure University and attended many reunions as a proud alum. John had a wonderful career at IBM in the Personal Department enabling him to hire half the triple cities during the 60’s and 70’ s helping so many get their career start. He enjoyed a 35-year career and retired in 1984.

In 1985 he lost our mother, Mary Jo, to cancer. Not wanting him to be alone, the angels sent Marcella to spend the next 33 years together. John and Marcey had many good times traveling, dancing with the Bill Flynn Polka club, and enjoying their huge family and extended family. Grandpa had great pride in his family and they all brought him joy.

It is said that a wealthy man is one who is loved and gives love. Our dad, grandpa, husband, cousin, friend was extremely blessed, content, and fulfilled. His kindness and example will live on in us.

A private family mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church. A private military burial at Calvary Cemetery will be done at the convenience of the family.

Please sign John’s guestbook. We would love to hear your stories and experiences with John.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to: Catholic Social Services, Binghamton, NY or the Sisters of St. Joseph, Latham, NY.

“Go in Peace and be the Light.”