In the summer of 1959, Monte fell in love with a beautiful red headed girl, Kay Selby, working at an ice cream shop! He married her a year later and together they navigated a beautiful life for over 60 years! In 1962, Monte joined the Mansfield Police Department and retired as a Lieutenant in 1991, serving almost 30 years on the force. He barely knew a stranger and everywhere he went, he waved or shook hands with someone either on one side of the law or the other!
As a family, they were lucky to live on what was formerly the beautiful Balgreen Farm. Monte’s family knew that when he was home, they were going to do something fun like going on a wagon ride, having a campfire, a picnic in the woods, or going on an adventure to Mohican State Park, an amusement park or a fair. Although most of his life he worked two and three jobs, his family never felt like he was not there for them. Monte was an incredible husband, father, grandfather and man and leaves a legacy of integrity and compassion for all to follow. Although he has gone from this earth, he will never be gone from the hearts of those who loved him.
After retirement, Monte and Kay packed up their three beloved yellow labs and ventured out on a road trip. They got as far as Safford, AZ, where they fell in love with the little mining town. It had two beautiful lakes at either end where they could “swim their dogs”! Surprising their entire family, they purchased a home, came back to Mansfield and packed up their belongings, moving to Safford to begin their new adventure. They spent five years in Arizona enjoying the breathtaking views, the warm sunshine, hiking the desert, bike riding, and loving the Mexican cuisine. Most of all they enjoyed “swimming their dogs”.
Missing their family, they moved back to Ohio and shortly after, Monte was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. He was determined to keep moving so he faithfully took daily walks, rode his bike as much as possible, and worked in the yard and garden. He rarely missed a day taking his dogs swimming in Clearfork Lake.
Monte moved until he couldn’t. It was a heartbreaking experience watching his decline, but his family and friends never stopped visiting and Monte and his family was so appreciative of the many prayers and kind words. Monte outlived his beloved wife, Kay, by just three months. His family is comforted by the promise that they are reunited in Heaven, healthy and happy!
Monte is survived by his daughter, Traci (Bob) Zacharias; son, Tyson Voelp; four grandchildren, Abby Zacharias, Holly Peterson, Andy Voelp and Erin Voelp; as well as two great-grandchildren, Jude Peterson and Claire Bouchard. Monte was also very much loved by his brothers, John and Vallie Voelp; extended family of sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and a daughter-in-law.
In addition to his parents, Monte was preceded in death by a son, Todd Voelp; and sister, Vicky Smith.
A private family celebration of Monte’s life will be held in the near future. Anyone wishing to send a memorial contribution, please consider donating to SouthernCare Hospice who provided invaluable care and support to Monte and his family. Additional thanks to the entire staff at Ontario Estates for the love, care, and support they provided. Without these remarkable individuals, Monte’s life would not have been as full, happy or peaceful.
Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario is honored to serve the family.
