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Welcome to the memorial page for

Monica Ann (Salle) Ilacqua

June 28, 1969 ~ January 29, 2017 (age 47) 47 Years Old
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A candle was lit by Happy Anniversary. Love your husband, Karl. on April 14, 2017 2:28 PM
Message from Susanne Meslans
February 20, 2017 3:41 PM

I had the pleasure of teaching Monica at Holy Names Academy, and I remember her well. We shared pride our Italian heritage, and when I commented that it was harder to find good Italian sausage here than where I grew up in New Jersey, Monica brought me some--real, home made sausage from her family's store. Monica was a lovely, gentle, thoughtful girl, and clearly she became a lovely and loving woman. My prayers and thoughts go to her family and friends. Thanks to Wendy for letting me know.
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A candle was lit by Susanne Meslans on February 20, 2017 3:33 PM
Message from Karl
February 16, 2017 11:00 PM

What follows are the words Monica's nephew, Matt, said during the funeral. Thank you for sharing, Matt.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriem, for the greater glory of god!!!

Hello Everyone, my name is Matt Orrange and I’m the nephew of Monica and the self-professed favorite nephew, grandson, child, and cousin.

I love my Aunt Dearly. Monica was a reliable, hard-working, and loving person who always had my back and one of the people who truly believed in me. She was the person that I could call on when I needed help or just someone to talk to. She had this canny sense of being able to decipher the challenges I was going through, actually make me feel like she was listening, and give honest feedback. I love her dearly.

My fondest memory of Monica was traveling to the motherland when I was 18. If some of you don’t already know, my family is VERY Italian. I was lucky enough to take a pilgrimage of sorts to visit Roco Di Mezzo, the birthplace of my Great Grandfather. This trip started off with an early morning flight and an abrupt wakeup call from Monica. When she had arrived to pick me up, she found that I still hadn’t fully packed. I will never forget her face full of shock as she helped me scurry together my suitcase.

One of Monica’s friends lived in a Town called Lucca, which has a giant wall that was completed in renaissance times. When we went to her friend’s home, we walked in and found a giant piece of art bestowing the door facing wall. To my shock, it was a giant portrait of her friend posing majestically while looking away from the camera. This is when Monica explained what vanity was.

There were a few memorable excursions including visiting Florence and having our hotel be close to the Duomo. Monica found peace in being near the domed cathedral and helped me understand why it was important. We also traveled to Pisa, where we ended up missing our train back to our hotel and waiting a few hours at the train station. We also walked through the Florence market for tourists, where Monica found a lot of humor in a suit salesman on the street saying “I have your size” to me.

When we finally arrived at Rocco Di Mezzo, me and Monica stayed with our cousins. This was a coming-of-age moment for me as I was able to meet my family from Italy for the first time. I heard Monica sharpen up her Italian as we walked the roads that my Great Grandfather had walked only a few generations ago, and got to experience my roots in a way that has forever stuck with me. We made cookies, watched Juventus, shared family stories, ate amazing food, and I got a sense of where I was from and what made me proud to be not only Italian-American but also a Colarassi. Family is forever, it crosses continents and languages, it binds us in ways that give us identity and purpose, and it shapes who we are and who we are to become.

I had the opportunity to spend time with Monica in the early stages of her diagnosis. I admit that this was tough seeing my hero being put through such a daunting challenge. However, she told me defiantly that she had to beat this because she had young ones at home who were counting on her. She wasn’t weary, she was determined... and Gabriel and Aurora where what gave her hope. You see I left out a characteristic in the beginning of this speech that is definitive of my Aunt. Monica was a fighter!!!

I had the opportunity to spend an afternoon with her in the presence of 3 generations of Salles including myself and a Jesuit Priest on January 19th. We prayed with Monica and shared communion. As the Father blessed her and talked about how we, as humans, may be scared of death but only because we can no longer love those on earth, but you can love them in heaven with God. Monica didn’t flinch, she had faith in the father and faith in the what would happen next, being seated at the table of God in Heaven.

She’s not alone... My Grandpa Bernie is probably selling Hot Dogs as we speak, my Uncle Mike is likely working on a complex carpentry project while simultaneously revving a Harley, Richard is getting excited about the upcoming Mariners season, and my Aunt Mimi is asking everyone for Hugs and Kisses.

I will miss my aunt greatly and I know she will be my guardian angel whenever I face adversity. Although I can’t call her, I know she will have my back if I pray to her. I also get the chance to watch her kids, Krista, Aurora, and Gabriel grow up and take on life with probably the same passion and fight that Monica did. I'm looking forward to building an even stronger bond with her children and being the big cousin that can have their back like Monica had mine.

Ciao Bella

Matt Orrange
February 10, 2017
St Patrick’s Catholic Church
Message from Karl
February 12, 2017 4:53 PM

What follows are the words Monica's brother, John, said during the funeral. Thank you for sharing, John.

Good Afternoon,
I’m Monica’s brother John Salle and it is my honor to say a few words today. Over the last thirteen months, as we traveled this journey with Monica, it became very apparent to me that in times of real need, when there is no doubt that your time on this earth may be limited, it brings you closer. Closer to your family, closer to your friends, closer to those you love, closer to many that you may not have heard from in a while. And of course, this experience teaches us all what really matters – the love of one another and the importance of family and community. This sense of community was so important and so appreciated by Monica. When reflecting on this past year, these past few weeks, and what to say today, the first thing that came to mind were the different communities that surrounded, blessed and informed Monica and her life.

First, our family. The Salle children were all three years apart. Maybe it was my dad, but I think my mom was the planner. Well this was especially convenient when it came time for high school. My brothers and I attended O’Dea, the all-boys High School, and Monica and Marie attended Holy Names. You see- Marie drove Joe to school when he was a freshman, Joe drove Tom when he was a freshman, Mike drove me when I was a Freshman, and I got to drive Monica when she was a freshman. When it came to my turn, being a senior and having to drive to the all-girls school, pulling up and dropping Monica off every morning, was not all that bad, although it never really worked out for me like I imagined. That was a special year for Monica and me spending so many mornings in the car, growing up at such a critical time together.

We grew up in South Seattle on Ryan Street, right across the street from St. Paul’s Parish. St. Paul’s was such a strong community of church and school, many families of which have been lifelong friends to the Salle’s and to Monica. Grade school friends, including Gina and Penny, from some thirty years ago came together to support Monica and that was something special to see.

Growing up in a family that owned a grocery business, the community around “the store”, as we simply called it, dominated the discussion around the Sunday night dinner table. Customers became friends, employees became family. This community even after so much time has passed, has been extremely supportive, not only of Monica, but to our entire family. Kathy, you were there for my father, for so many years and for my brother Mike and myself. I bet you thought when you moved to Gig Harbor, you were done with the Salles, but somehow Monica turned up here as well. Thank you for all you have done for her and for our family. The community of Holy Names Academy; the all-girls high school on Capitol Hill, more lifelong friends that came to her assistance and encouraged here throughout her battle. Her best friend went above and beyond what any of us would ever ask of a friend. Wendy, you have been such an example of friendship, compassion and selflessness. Thank you.

After her college years, Monica became part of a work community called MultiCare, where she loved her work and was so very proud of her career. She was a co- worker, a boss, an employee, but clearly she enjoyed the company of many in this workplace. This community has been so supportive over the last year. I only had the chance to meet a few of you: Karen and Juanita, but I know there were many, many, more. Thank you for all your support and friendship. Her community here, at St Patrick’s, where Aurora went to school, and now Gabriel attends school, and the family’s church. Where Karl is a member of the Knights of Columbus; a community that came together in support of Monica with a fundraiser dinner late last year. I’d like to especially thank Gabriel’s classmates from the second grade. Thank you for being here today and thank you for the wonderful prayer cards adorning the back wall of this church. Your continual support, prayers, and outreach have been very much appreciated. Last but not least, our extended family community: brothers, sisters, cousins, nieces, nephews. Your love for Monica, Karl and her family has been wonderful and reinforces to all of us what really matters. Joe, your morning Facebook posts, Tom, your phone calls, Marie, your compassionate care and Laura with a quip, a smile and sometimes shaking a much-needed cocktail, it mattered when Monica needed you most, and to my nieces and nephews. Monica was so pleased to have her girls, Aurora and Krista, swept unquestioningly into the mix called Salle Cousins, and when Gabriel finally arrived, that regardless of the age difference, he always was meant to feel part of the team, because he is. And last, my mother, who wore out her phone calling all the priests she has ever known asking for masses and prayers. And for all the other friends, family and acquaintances of Monica and Karl and their family, thank you for all you have done and for your support. I am sure Monica would like me to thank each and every one of you. I am sure there is a list somewhere…

Monica was a planner and a list maker. This last year she had a notebook at her side and with lots of tasks, or “to-dos” with a checkbox by each. Karl graciously agreed to share a list we thought all here today would appreciate. It’s on the back of the card. I’m not sure, but I’m guessing after all that time in the hospital, “Try Exotic Food” was one that really had a new meaning for her. And, the National Parks definitely remind us how Monica was a Biology major who loved and appreciated natural beauty and could see the science all around her. So next time you try some exotic food, or pick up a shell at the beach this summer, think of Monica.

Thank you for allowing me to share with you my appreciation for this community. We are here today for Monica, one big community celebrating her life. Monica’s spirit will live within each of us in its own special way. This journey, however painful it may feel today, has brought us all closer together. Karl, Aurora, Gabriel, Krista, I hope that you will find strength now and in the future in knowing that your wife and mother has impacted each of us and won’t be forgotten. We loved her very much.
Thank you.

John Salle
February 10, 2017
St Patrick’s Catholic Church

Message from Tacoma
February 16, 2017 6:23 AM

Monica, may you rest in eternal peace. You were all that your family and friends has said and much more. I was blessed to be your caregiver. I learnt a lot from you. You loved every thing in life and rarely complained. You taught me to appreciate painting and even took be to the painting studio. I look at the paintings we did together and I know God planned for us to meet.
You were a sister and a friend. I never felt like I worked a day because I was busy enjoying your companionship. I pray that God be with your family and give them grace to move on knowing you're still very close to them.
Farewell
Esther
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A candle was lit by Emily Schwarz on February 9, 2017 4:20 PM
Message from Lorraine Albert
February 9, 2017 2:58 PM

I am deeply saddened by Monica's passing. I remember when she was born and recall the growing friendship Monica, Todd, and Christine shared throughout their early years and into their adult lives. All of the Salle family had such a positive influence on our family, and for that we are grateful. It is with heartfelt sympathy that I offer up prayers for all of you.
Much love,
Lorraine Albert
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A candle was lit by Lorraine Albert on February 9, 2017 2:40 PM
Message from Raydeane Bouchard
February 9, 2017 9:23 AM

What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch. We may not understand why Monica left this earth so soon or why she left before you were ready to say good bye, but little by little, you begin to remember not just that she died, but that she lived. And that her life gave you memories too beautiful to forget. And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count, but the life in your years. May God heal your heart.
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A candle was lit by Lisa Blevins Harrison on February 8, 2017 5:47 PM
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A candle was lit by Evie on February 6, 2017 6:00 PM
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A candle was lit by Lisa on February 6, 2017 2:51 PM
Message from Tom and Barbara Mulledy
February 6, 2017 10:23 AM

We were sorry to hear of the passing of your wife and mother of your children. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time but we hope you can feel the caring and deep sympathy that are meant for you and your family.
Sincerely
Tom and Barbara Mulledy
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A candle was lit by Todd and Whitney Marzan on February 6, 2017 9:30 AM
Message from Todd and Whitney Marzano
February 6, 2017 9:29 AM

Dear Lucy and Family,
We want to extend our condolences on Monica's passing. Todd, speaks so highly of his childhood days spent with your family and Monica. He says, she was like a sister to him. He feels blessed to have gotten to see her again. Her spirit, sense of humor and love of family came through our FB conversations and her Caring Bridge posts. We are so sorry for your loss and know she is making them laugh in Heaven. May she Rest in Peace.
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A candle was lit by Barbi Dragoo on February 6, 2017 5:34 AM
Message from it's Thom
February 6, 2017 1:08 AM

It's time to pick up the pieces, and you will. You don't have to pick them up all at once and you won't have to pick them up alone.
Expression of Sympathy

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A GARDEN PATH was ordered on February 5, 2017

Message from Serina Reese
February 4, 2017 11:46 PM

As you comprehend this profound loss, let yourself cry knowing each tear is a note of love rising to the heavens.
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A candle was lit by Serina Reese on February 4, 2017 11:45 PM
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A candle was lit by Regina & Caeli S on February 4, 2017 11:13 PM
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A candle was lit by Phyllis Kanda on February 4, 2017 6:40 PM
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A candle was lit by Cheryl and Ray Stanley on February 4, 2017 12:09 PM
Message from Gail Denise
February 4, 2017 7:56 AM

Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of Monica. I hope that knowing you're in the thoughts of many will be of comfort during this difficult time. (2 Corinthians 1:3,4)
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A candle was lit by Peter and Heidi(Moloney) Riedeman on February 3, 2017 7:23 PM
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A candle was lit by Karen Miller on February 3, 2017 4:38 PM
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A candle was lit by Joe Cunningham on February 3, 2017 4:30 PM
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A candle was lit by Patricia Terenzi on February 3, 2017 3:16 PM
Message from Chris Terenzi
February 3, 2017 2:43 PM

I had the pleasure of working with Monica for many years at MultiCare. Besides being a great employee, terrific Manager and all-around wonderful person – my best memories of Monica were us just talking about family. I remember Monica’s joy at meeting the love of her life – Karl and her complete happiness at the birth of her son, Gabriel. Monica always made it a point to keep an eye out for my Dad (Joe) at church – and never failed to ask about him.
Rest in peace, Monica – I know you are watching over us all.
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A candle was lit by The Roman Family on February 3, 2017 2:42 PM
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A candle was lit by Sandra Mazzoni on February 3, 2017 2:17 PM
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A candle was lit by Amy Thackeray on February 3, 2017 1:38 PM
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A candle was lit by Chris Terenzi on February 3, 2017 1:34 PM
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A candle was lit by JaCinda, Lance and Aiden Hamilton on February 3, 2017 11:32 AM
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A candle was lit by Michael and Leslie Arnold on February 3, 2017 9:14 AM
Message from TJ
February 3, 2017 8:33 AM

Offering sincere condolences. I am so very sorry for the loss of your Dear loved one. No doubt this is a very difficult time for the family. Please find comfort in knowing that soon our Heavenly Father (Psalm 83:18) will give those who have fallen asleep in death the opportunity to live again (Acts 24:15) and serve him in a world under much better conditions than what we see today. (Psalm 37:29; Rev. 21:4,5)
Message from Marjorie Korkowski
February 3, 2017 8:26 AM

I have wonderful memories of Monica's fine mind and twinkling eyes. I pray that God grant her husband, children, and family both consolation and peace.
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A candle was lit by Linda on February 3, 2017 8:13 AM
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A candle was lit by The Henrikson family on February 3, 2017 7:34 AM
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A candle was lit by paul murphy on February 3, 2017 2:52 AM
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A candle was lit by Sue Pollard Ardy and family on February 2, 2017 10:51 PM
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A candle was lit by Laura Crowley on February 2, 2017 8:51 PM
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A candle was lit by David Cormier and family on February 2, 2017 8:20 PM
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A candle was lit by Seana Barker (Lang) on February 2, 2017 7:05 PM
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A candle was lit by Jessica and David Storaasli on February 2, 2017 4:17 PM
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A candle was lit by Julie Johnson on February 2, 2017 4:02 PM
Message from Robert Porcaro and Famililal
February 2, 2017 4:01 PM

Our deepest thoughts are with you as we too just experienced a great loss.
So with heartfelt Prayer we give you Blessings of Peace and understanding
Rob.
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A candle was lit by Paul Gibson on February 2, 2017 3:56 PM
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A candle was lit by Benny & Darla Guerrero Family on February 2, 2017 2:14 PM
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A candle was lit by Antoinette Solnik on February 2, 2017 1:54 PM
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A candle was lit by Juanita (Your Juana Fix) on February 2, 2017 1:37 PM
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A candle was lit by Len & Laurie Quadracci Family on February 2, 2017 1:07 PM
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A candle was lit by Karl on February 2, 2017 11:16 AM
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