Gary Monroe, 75

Gary Alan Monroe, 75, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, left us Feb. 22, 2023. He was born on March 2, 1947, in Midland, Texas, to John David (JD) and Lila Alice Monroe.

Gary was a loving and devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Donna Chambers Monroe, daughter Katherine Monroe Coyle, sister Janice Monroe Watson, and cat Toby.

Upon graduation from high school in West Texas, Gary ventured to New Orleans, La., on a swimming scholarship to Tulane University, where he earned a degree in English. While at Tulane, he met the love of his life Donna. They were married on Feb. 17, 1973, in Dallas, Texas, where Gary began a lifelong career as a corporate buyer for numerous grocery chains. Gary’s career took his family all over the country. The Monroes moved from Texas to Oklahoma, back to Texas, Illinois, back to Oklahoma, Idaho, Arizona, back to Idaho, Minnesota and, finally, back to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, upon retirement. Gary faithfully supported his wife and daughter working in corporate grocery offices for over 40 years.

Gary was a man of few words, but when he spoke, people listened, as what he had to say was either hilarious or insightful. Gary spent his retirement as a volunteer for Kootenai Health and the Mended Hearts organization. He was a talented painter, a Dallas Cowboys fan, a Beatles enthusiast, an avid reader, and a news junkie. He was a truly great man whose impact will be forever felt by his family, who loves him dearly.

Gary’s arrangements have been entrusted to English Funeral Home in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. A memorial will be planned for the summer. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane, Wash., and Hospice of North Idaho.