POUGHKEEPSIE - Rudolph A. Monaco, 87, died peacefully at home on Friday, November 28, 2014 surrounded by his loving family.

Rudy was born in Newark, New Jersey on January 18, 1927 to Louis and Margaret (Pepe) Monaco. He was raised in the Bronx where he had many happy memories of good times with friends and family. Rudy enlisted in the United States Navy at 17 and served in WWII as a radio technician on Navy ships. At 22, he secured a job with NY Telephone where he worked for 38 years as a service technician.

On February 4, 1951 he married the love of his life, Louise Tobacco, who survives at home. In 1964, he realized his dream of moving his family out of the city and built a home in Yorktown Heights, Westchester County, where the family spent many happy years. In 1990, Rudy and Louise moved to Dutchess County where they were very active in the Senior Center and enjoyed many events and trips with good friends. Rudy loved to travel and upon retirement, he and Louise took several trips to Europe, including his beloved Italy, Canada, Hawaii and throughout the continental United States.

Rudy was an avid gardener and enjoyed many hours tending to his vegetables and flowers, trees and shrubs. He valued physical fitness and worked out regularly until this past year. For 15 years, Rudy was a valued team mate of the men's Seniors Bowling League at Mardi Bob Lanes.

Rudy is predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Danny and Louie, and survived by two brothers, Mickey and Eddie, as well as dozens of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his six children; daughter Geraldine Ford and son-in-law Clay of Greenville, daughter Marguerite McFadden and son-in-law John, of Pleasant
Valley, daughter Jeannette Monaco and son-in-law Bob Jalango of Hartsdale, son Gary Monaco of Carmel, daughter Christine Mowbray and son-in-law David of LaGrangeville, and daughter Gina Monaco of Wappingers Falls, along with 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Rudy showed his true character as he faced his last few weeks with dignity, grace and good humor, when he was able. He truly was a devoted husband and family man who was happiest when spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He will be missed dearly and remembered with great love and affection.

Calling hours will be held on Monday from 4 – 8 pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. The Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday at 10 am at Holy Trinity Church, 775 Main Street, Poughkeepsie followed by burial at St. Peter's Cemetery with military honors.

For online condolences or driving directions, please visit Rudy's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.