Michael Dee Monroe, a beloved husband, father, and brother, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, in Muncie, Indiana surrounded by his loving family, he was 76. Born January 31, 1950, in Muncie, to the late Frank William Jr. and Oretha June (Fields) Monroe. Michael’s life will be remembered for his self-sacrificing and generous personality.

Michael graduated from Burris Laboratory School, class of 1968. He then enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a crew chief and helicopter door gunner. He served in the 101st Screaming Eagles Division Lancer Helicopter Air Assault Battalion, two consecutive tours of duty and “Benny” as they called him, never wanted to leave a brother left behind. He was honorably discharged after his faithful service in 1971, he was very patriotic and loved America. After his military service, Michael went on to be a truck driver for Robert M. Neff Trucking hauling mail and after 39 years, he respectfully retired on March 4, 2017.

Michael’s love for people never went unnoticed, he was very humble and lived his religion as a father, good Samaritan, and Christian. He found great joy working on his neighbor’s many cars and later doing his “capers” fixing lawn mowers and mowing their yards. A motorcycle enthusiast, as well during the 80’s and 90’s, family remembers long needed rides around the reservoir. Throughout his life he met many people and never knew a stranger. He was hard working and would break his back for a friend, compassionate, humorous, and always enjoyed a good laugh. He picked up the urge to become a private pilot, and he did it all in under a year and a half; and later in life he taught himself how to play guitar. Michael will be remembered for his generous smile and willingness to help a friend in need.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory, a loving wife of nearly 54 years, Judith “Judy” P. (Manning) Monroe; two sons, Christopher Monroe and Daniel Monroe; sister, Margaret Monroe; a sister-in-law, Laura Manning; brother-in-law, Mark (Starr) Manning; a host of nieces and nephews, Amy Su (Lance) Monroe Hale, Holly Michelle (John) Monroe Remley, and Jeremy Lee (Jessica) Monroe.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Frank W. Jr. and Oretha J. (Fields) Monroe; brother, Jerry Monroe; sister, Janice Kay Monroe; and infant sister, Michelle Rhea Monroe.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 pm at Garden View Funeral Home, located at 10501 N. State Rd 3, Muncie, Indiana 47303.

An honorary military service will follow services.

A cremation burial will be at a later date.