November 27, 1955 - May 28, 2011

He had a gift for bringing people together...

Monte, devoted husband, father, and exceptional friend to many, died at home in Lynnwood on May 28th, 2011 following an arduous 2 year battle with colon cancer. He maintained his sense of humor, passion for life and continually expressed his gratitude and love for others throughout this difficult time. He was 55 years old.

Born in Spokane to Tom and Mathilda Edwards in 1955. Monte was raised in Spokane where he graduated from Shadle Park High School in 1974. He went on to attend Western Washington University in Bellingham where he met his wife Nancy and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.

Monte, a 30 year resident of Lynnwood, had a 27 year career as a store manager for Big 5 Sporting Goods in the Puget Sound Area. He was a fantastic dad to his two sons involving himself in leadership roles with the Boy Scouts, managing hockey teams and rarely missed any of the football games, hockey games, swim meets, track meets or performances in which his son’s participated.

He loved aviation and was a member of the Flying Heritage Collection. He will be remembered for his fondness for hats, antiques, fossils, clocks, history (especially WWI) the Beatles, formula I car races and Hawaii. He loved to fish, ride his motorcycle, bicycle, hike, travel and spend time with his family, friends and dogs.

A fun-loving man, who treasured his friendships and family – he had a gift for bringing people together. Monte facilitated all kinds of fun events bringing together friends and family such as: ski racing, BBQ’s, pinball tournaments, fishing trips, concerts, hikes and so much more. Many will remember Monte for his great story telling and ability to make others laugh.

He is survived by his wife Nancy of 28 years, sons Max and Alex; sister in law, Karen Walsh, brother in law, Dave Eastman (Tanya); mother in law Jean Eastman-Swenson (Carl Swenson); nieces and nephews Nicole Walsh, Sean Walsh, Kayla Eastman and Hallie Eastman. He was preceded in death by his parents Tom and Mathilda Edwards (Spokane). Please use the “View Memorial and Sign Guestbook” link on this page to post comments and remembrances.

Funeral Information

A Memorial Service will be held at the Edmonds United Methodist Church at 2:00 PM on Friday, June 24, 2011. Click on the link below for a map and driving directions.

Donations

All expressions of condolence are welcome. Memorial contributions in Monte's honor can be made to the Caring Bridge Organization or to the Port Townsend Aero Museum, a program that so impressed Monte:

"Where young adult volunteers learn technical skills, management techniques, aviation history, and other related subjects. For those who show capability, dedication, and interest, we also have a flight training program."

Memorial

Crossing the Bar

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea, 

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home. 

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark; 

For tho, from out our bourne of time and place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.

Alfred, Lord Tennyson

As We Look Back

As we look back over time
We find ourselves wondering...
Did we remember to thank you enough
For all you have done for us?
For all the times you were by our sides
To help and support us...
To celebrate our successes
To understand our problems
And accept our defeats?
Or for teaching us by your example,
The value of hard work, good judgment,
Courage and integrity?
We wonder if we ever thanked you
For the sacrifices you made.
To let us have the very best?
And for the simple things
Like laughter, smiles and times we shared?
If we have forgotten to show our
Gratitude enough for all the things you did,
We're thanking you now.
And we are hoping you knew all along,
How much you meant to us.

Author Unknown