Edward Raymond Monroe

Edward Raymond Monroe, age 88, passed away peacefully in his home on October 25, 2025. During these later years of his life, he was so grateful to all the people that helped him and was so thankful for their kindness.

Ed was born on May 2, 1937, in West Bend to Cyril and Lillian (Goetz) Monroe. From a very early age, the love of the Northwoods and outdoors was woven into his life.

Ed’s commitment to his country was evident in his service with the Army National Guard’s “Red Arrow” 32nd Infantry Brigade. This dedication was reflected in the community around him, whose support and loyalty he deeply respected and appreciated.

Ed married Mary Traeder in 1963. Before they started a family of their own, Ed and Mary opened their home to foster children, offering support and love to those who needed it most. Together they enjoyed raising their family in Medina, gardening, traveling and spending time with family and friends up north. In later years they enjoyed traveling around the country, exploring each new place together.

A lifelong sportsman, Ed was instrumental in founding Wisconsin’s gun safety and hunter education program, work that brought him immense pride. He was also an active member of the Outagamie County Conservation Club, enjoying his trap league and reloading for himself and many others. He was happiest outside, hunting, row trolling for muskie, making trips to the Great Lakes and Canada for walleye, and after retiring, took up a new appreciation and love for trapping. He was a true storyteller and loved sharing his unmatched knowledge of Wisconsin’s rich history with anyone lucky enough to listen.

Ed retired from Kimberly-Clark after 40 years of dedicated work and remained an active and proud member of the American Legion and supporter of the Auxiliary. He had a quick wit, sharp mind, and more euphemisms than a person could shake a stick at. His humor brought laughter to every gathering and his love for his family was steady and unwavering.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cyril and Lillian, his beloved wife, Mary, and his siblings Hazel Lohr, Cyril Monroe, and Rita Monroe. Ed is survived by his daughter, Colleen (Chad) Meyer, his son, Daniel (Tiffany) Monroe, his grandchildren Ava and Grant Meyer and Riley Gibbs. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other family and friends who will forever carry forward his stories, his laughter, and his love.

Ed’s family is deeply grateful to the relatives, friends, and caring neighbors who helped him remain in his cherished “Up North” cottage home. Thanks to their support, he remained in his favorite place. His family is deeply grateful and will be forever appreciative of this support.

A service will be held at noon on Saturday, Nov. 8 at Bolger Funeral Home, 1212 First Ave. Woodruff. A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service.

Ed will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Donations will be made in his memory to the American Legion, which exemplifies his commitment to service and community, and to Meals on Wheels, an organization that helped to enable Ed to remain happily in his home. Bolger Funeral Home is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com for condolences.