Obituary of Michael Daniel Monahan

Michael Daniel “Mike” Monahan, 47, passed away on Friday, December 18, 2015, in Diamond Bar, CA. He was born on August 18, 1968, in Spokane, the younger son of Roger Kermit and Nancy Louise (Cook) Monahan. Mike grew up in Spokane, Springdale, and Chattaroy, WA. As a child, he enjoyed all the family outings including camping and fishing. By far, his favorite were the ski trips. His skiing ability was outmatched only by his fearlessness as he took the jumps, ready or not, knowing that, if necessary, he’d handle the consequences after he was airborne. Mike graduated Rogers High School. He was employed as a janitor, a waiter, and a cook. He lived in Seattle for a short time before settling in California. Mike worked as a model during his first few years in California. Bitten by the acting bug, he aggressively pursued the acting profession. While a member of the Screen Actors’ Guild, he garnered roles in several movies, theater productions and commercials. Mike’s permanent career was the plumbing business. He transitioned through the Apprentice and Journeyman levels; and, achieved the Master Plumber credential, a qualification he maintained until his death. As an adult, his hobbies shifted to hunting and scuba-diving. Never one to be satisfied with less than commanding knowledge and skill, Mike achieved Master Diver status. He gained high regard in this sport for his dedication to buddy and mentor beginning divers. He is credited with rescuing a diver in distress when others hesitated. Mike’s siblings describe their brother as kind beyond measure; hysterically humorous; unselfish and willing to put the needs of others before his own. Mike is survived by his parents, Nancy Danneker (Joseph) and Roger Monahan (Betty); his daughter, Daniella; his sisters and brothers, Shelly Monahan Cain (Steve); Denise Choi (Chris); John Monahan (Vivi); Colleen Davis (Ed); Mary Jensen (Ron); David Danneker (Laetitia); and Aaron Danneker; and, many nieces and nephews that cherished their Uncle Mike. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 2, 2016, 11:00 A.M. at St Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, 921 W. Jefferson Ave, St. Maries, ID., with reception to follow. Burial will be in the Cook Family plot at Woodlawn Cemetery in St. Maries.