Word has reached us of the passing of Ernesto Monaco, founder of Monaco Group Automotive, peacefully on December 28 at the age of 92.

A dedicated father, loving grandfather, uncle, mentor, founder, builder, nature sportsman, professional colleague and a dear friend to many, he is remembered for a strong work ethic and rigorous standards balanced with sensible values, openness, kindness and generosity to many on their life journeys.

He laid the foundations of the Monaco Group in 1960 with the opening of Jarry Auto Parts, located at 1470 Jarry East in Montreal, Que. The success of that business over the ensuing years and his eye for opportunity led to the 1986 opening of the group’s first distribution centre: Entrepôt de Montréal 1470 Inc.

Today Monaco Group Automotive operates three distribution centres including Entrepôt de Montréal 1470 Inc., and two in Ontario: World Automotive in Toronto and Regional Automotive Warehousing in Ottawa.

Monaco Group also owns 15 corporate stores in Quebec and Ontario and has founded its own network of more than 70 affiliated jobber stores and more than 120 Automotive Service Provider members.

It continues to be a Monaco family owned and operated business.

He is survived by his wife Maria (Perrone), daughter Lucia, son Dominic, grandson JD and granddaughter Michelle. He is pre-deceased by his son Orazio.

Visitation and services have already been held.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at: https://www.montrealthoracique.ca/en/donate/