With heavy hearts we share that Richard “Dick” Monroe of Vero Beach, Florida, aka “Santa Clause,” “Wuggie Man,” or “Uncle Dick,” passed away surrounded by his family and his dog Milo, on Sunday, August 31, 2025. Dick was 78 years of age and earned a reputation as a master home builder and carpenter. He grew up in Somers Point, NJ. He served in the Air Force from 1969 to 1972, receiving three National Defense Service Medals. During this time he met his future wife Diane while stationed in Chicopee, MA. They were married in 1969 and eventually settled in Ocean City, NJ. They lived there for many years before moving to Vero Beach in 1984. Married for 56 years, Dick’s memory will be carried on by his wife Diane and their children: Jill; Richard “Duby“(Laura); Andrea “Andi” (Scott Poyer); and Benjamin “Ben” (Summer). Dick also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren – Morgan (Joey Lange); Bryan; Gabrielle; Molly; Autumn; Brantley; Max; and Dick’s great grandchildren – Marlene; Monroe; and Joseph Ryan, Jr. He is reunited with his granddaughter Madeleine Monroe and other loved ones who went before. Dick loved to tend his plants, read a great mystery, grill dinner for his family, and play in the pool with his younger family members. He will be greatly missed for his spirit, his sense of humor, and his love of life.

There will be a private service of committal at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Hospice House, 901 37th Street, Vero Beach, FL, 32960.