Our beloved Monique Girard-Solomita passed away at her home in Laval on April 26, 2020, with her husband and two daughters by her side. She was taken much too soon by ovarian cancer, the silent killer. Monique was cherished by all who knew her as a warm and radiant woman who always had a smile and many kind words for those around her. She fought hardship with a fierce love of life, and her enthusiasm and persistent joy were a shining example for those lucky enough to know her.
Monique Girard was born on October 24, 1949, in Quebec’s beautiful Lac-Saint-Jean region, which always occupied a special place in her heart. After completing her studies in journalism, Monique was hired as a reporter at the Journal de Montréal in 1972, a defining moment in her life. She loved her career at the Journal and remained there for more than 35 years, writing countless articles and embracing opportunities to travel the world. Monique’s love for journalism inspired one of her daughters to pursue the same profession.
Monique leaves behind her husband Joseph Solomita, who introduced her to Italian culture and who expressed his lifelong love for her through his delicious meals. Monique and Joe would have celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary on June 19. Their two daughters Louise (David) and Christine (Paolo) will forever miss their mother’s daily presence in their lives. While they would have wanted her by their side for another 30 years, they are eternally grateful to have had such a mother.
Monique was an extraordinary Nonna to her grandchildren Matthew James, Mia Giuseppina and Gianna Monique. She leaves behind her brothers Robert and Jean-Pierre (Francine), and has joined her parents and her sisters Camille and Lisette. Monique will be sadly missed by her nephews and nieces, as well as by members of her extended family and her vast network of friends, including the incomparable Michelle.
Once gatherings are permitted, her family will organize a mass and a celebration worthy of such a life. In the meantime, may the memory of her kindness and joy bring comfort to those trying to make sense of this loss.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Monique’s memory in support of the DOvEE Project for the early detection of ovarian cancer via the McGill University Health Centre Foundation. Donations can be made online at https://www.muhcfoundation.com/dreambig/dovee/, by phone at 514-843-1543 or by mail to the MUHC Foundation at 700-5100 de Maisonneuve Blvd. O., Montréal (Québec) H4A 3T2.
