Leroy "Lee" Monette

He was the cherished son of Frederick Alcide Monette and Ida M. (Smith) Monette.

In 1957, a blind date changed the course of his life when he met Janice Hill. Following a memorable four-year courtship filled with stories still fondly shared by his family, they married on October 14, 1961, beginning a partnership marked by deep love, unwavering support, and countless special moments together.

Lee spent his career building a legacy with his brothers as co-owners of Monette Construction. He took tremendous pride in his craft, ensuring that every project met his exacting standards. For Lee, good enough was never good enough — it had to be done perfectly. He was also a proud GOLD card-carrying member of the Bricklayers Union, a distinction he held with great honor. His work ethic, craftsmanship, and integrity left a lasting mark on every job he touched. But it was his roles as husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend where he truly shined. His family was his greatest joy.

Outside of work, Lee enjoyed a quiet and joyful life. He loved waterskiing, boating, fishing, and playing games in the backyard. He took great pride in his perfectly manicured lawn — every blade of grass had to be just right.

For many years, he, Jan, and close friends traveled to Florida, creating memories full of laughter and companionship. He especially loved time around the card table, especially playing 500 and Fast Track with family and friends. One of the family’s favorite stories is how he insisted he won more at Fast Track — prompting Janice to keep meticulous score for over three months. The final tally? Perfectly even — a fitting reflection of their lifelong partnership.

A loyal Twins baseball fan, Lee rarely missed a game. One memorable day, he attended the fifth-longest game in Twins history with his daughter Janelle and grandson Dylan. Sitting in prime seats behind home plate through 11 innings of sweltering heat, they finally called it a night — only to learn later the game stretched to 18 innings.

His son Don fondly remembers weekends on the lake — waterskiing, boating, and casting fishing lines, creating a lifetime of special memories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Ida; his brothers Floyd, Wallace, Jerry, and Marshall; his sisters Fern and June; and several close lifelong friends.

He is survived by his loving and supportive wife of 66 years, Janice; his children, Donald (Lori) and Janelle (Chris); his grandchildren, Dylan, Donovan, Josiah, Sydney, Josephine “Josie”, and Hope; his brother Thomas (Carol); his sister Mary Francis (Bud); and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was a proud father, grandfather and uncle, and his wisdom, gentle humor, and unconditional love leave lasting memories for all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held on August 2, 2025 at Wulff Funeral Home, 1485 White Bear Ave. N, St. Paul, MN 55106, with visitation from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm and a service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Monette family to be dispersed as gestures of gratitude for the devoted care and companionship others shared with Lee throughout his final years.

Lee’s legacy of love, kindness, and quiet strength lives on in his family and the many lives he touched.