Gary Alan Monroe

Gary Alan Monroe, 75, of Coeur d Alene, Idaho left us on February 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 fifty 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, Louisiana 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 February 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 forty 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, Washington and Hospice of North Idaho.