Michael J. Monaghan, 51, Orofino
Michael J. Monaghan, Orofino, was born on Jan. 13, 1962 to Joe and Ruth Monaghan. Mike passed away Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013 near Alamo, ND in a vehicle accident (semi- rollover).
Mike grew up in Orofino and was a 12-year senior, graduating from Orofino High School in 1980. He was a stand out on the football team during that four-year period, earning the respect from his fellow players as a triple threat that could run, pass, or catch the ball. He was noted as passing being his favorite.
After high school Mike joined the Army, spending a few years overseas in Germany, earning the rank of E-4 before his discharge. Afterwards he came home to take care of his mother and worked locally until her passing.
Mike acquired a CDL and drove locally for Finke Logging before going to work in North Dakota for Profrac, where he had worked for about four years at the time of his passing.
Mike was a good man and a true friend who was loved by many. You could always count on a smile, a laugh or a hand from Mike if you needed it. He loved hunting, fishing and just about any outdoor activity. His recent purchase of a Harley and a trip to Sturgis this past summer was a long time dream of Mike's.
His love for sports never took a backseat, though, the Patriots being his favorite NFL team. He usually followed everything-basketball, baseball, and of course, football. If you wanted to know how a team was doing or how someone was doing, you could just ask Mike.
He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his son, Danial Mathis; niece, Cathy Clark; granddaughter, Jayden Marie Lynn Monaghan; grandson, RJae Lee Praest; his faithful dog, Socks; and friends too many to list.
Mike has been cremated and a celebration of life and potluck will be held at The Shotglass Saturday, Dec. 21 at 1:30 p.m. A military ceremony (21 gun salute) will be scheduled and announced at a later date.
Anyone wishing to help out or make a donation can contact Mike Thacker at 476-3630 (UMF Motorcycle Club).
Transcribed by Michal Berreth-Beck, 2014