euskalkultura.eus

12/18/2020 - Sacramento, CA, USA

On December 18, 2020, Frank Monasterio passed quietly in his sleep at the age of 96 in Sacramento, CA. Frank was born January 14, 1924 in Stockton, CA to Basque immigrants, Antonio Monasterio and Ramona Egurrola.

Frank was an Army veteran having served during World War II in France and North Africa. After the war, Frank spent many years driving truck, locally in Stockton and then long haul before moving to Yuba City. Once in Yuba City he also became interested in farming and pursued both occupations. This was made possible because of the hard work and dedication of his wife Lucille. He often said, "I earn my money driving. I spend my money farming." Frank was honored to have represented the agricultural community in Argentina, Australia and China.

Frank possessed a steady, confident sass that was most appreciated and combated only by equally audacious banter. His brazen attitude and monotone chatter could disguise his joy until a smirk would inevitably crack through. He was an independent, work-loving man whose determination and proactive nature inspired his family.

He loved the simple joys of eating fresh fruit at home, walking in the orchard, working on equipment, going for rides and, especially, visiting with friends and family.

Frank was predeceased by his constant companion, best friend and wife, Lucille, brothers, Edward, Raymond, Michael, Daniel, and sister, Mercedes Gardner.

He is survived by daughter Darlene Leach (Ken), grandsons, Ken Leach (Lili) and Anthony Leach (Lisa), granddaughter, Stephanie Deveau, great grandchildren Madison, Sherilyn, Ben, Vivien and Nixon, and sister, MaryLou Bowyer of Aptos. He also leaves many nieces and nephews who dearly loved their Uncle Frank.

Frank and Lucille were laid to rest together on their wedding anniversary, December 31, 2020, at the Northern California Veterans Cemetery, Igo, CA, in a service with Honors.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

(published in Appeal Democrat, Legacy.com from Feb. 2 to Feb. 3, 2021)

Goian Bego (GB) - Rest in Peace