Monte Melvin Wohlford

Monte M. Wohlford, age 69, passed away peacefully after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer on March 26, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. Monte was born January 27, 1953 to Mel and Lucille Wohlford. He was a 1971 graduate of Grandville High School. On April 1, 1972, Monte married his beautiful wife of 50 years, Penny (Galer). His beloved daughter Karra was welcomed into the world soon after. He was the proud owner of Parker Brake & Alignment, following in his father's footsteps. He started working there when he was a teenager and just celebrated his 50th year at the family business.

There was nothing he loved more than spending time with his family: vacations to Marco Island, boating on Lake Michigan, and big family dinners on the cottage deck. Monte was a devoted husband, father, grampy, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Monte had many passions in life; first and foremost his grandchildren, America, Bud Light, anything with a motor, golden retrievers, lunch with his buddies, pheasant hunts, Jimmy Buffet, NASCAR, Harley Davidson, GVSU football, supporting small businesses, and FOOD! He was always good for a laugh or a sarcastic comment. He truly lived life to the fullest, loving everyone around him. People closest to him knew he would do anything for his family and friends. Monte had the most generous and kind heart, going out of his way to make everyone in his life feel special.

He is survived by his wife, Penny; daughter, Karra (Josh) Brinks; his three precious grandchildren Haley, Jenna and Alex; sisters Gaylene (Larry) Ras, Lola Galinis; sister-in-law, Deb DeRidder; nieces and nephews Melanie (Ron) Ruppersburg, Danielle (Andy) Verhamme, Wade Galinis, Corey (Hillary) DeRidder, and Sara (Jake) Golden.

Family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Monte are invited to attend a celebration of life at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 23 with a luncheon following. Visitation prior to the service starts at 11:00 a.m. at First Reformed Church of Grandville, 3060 Wilson Ave. SW.

In lieu of flowers, Monte requested donations be made to Grand Rapids Southwest Young Life, PO Box 503, Grandville, MI 49418. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online in www.cookcaresgrandville.com.