Angelo Monte, Sr., 89

Angelo Monte Sr., Senior Vice President of Gurney's Inn Resort, Spa and Conference Center and decorated D-Day hero, passed away on October 23. He was 89 years old.

Born in Brooklyn in 1919 above his family's restaurant (Monte's Venetian Room, started by his parents, Angelo and Filomena, in 1906), Angelo Monte was raised in the restaurant business. He was one of seven Monte boys - five of whom worked in the family restaurant.

Shortly after Pearl Harbor, Angelo joined the Army and was assigned to the infantry, 29th division - among the first wave of troops to hit Omaha Beach on D-Day morning. With more than 65% casualties on the beaches of Normandy, it seemed a miracle that Monte's life was spared. Returning home, his father handed him an apron and said, "You're the night bartender." Monte held that post as well as the job of night manager at the restaurant for the next 22 years. He developed a devout and loyal following that included politicians, entertainers, gangsters and neighborhood folk.

Monte defined hospitality as a family tradition that is passed on from one generation to another. He and his late wife Gladys, the ultimate hosts, welcomed countless friends, acquaintances and even strangers into their home for family dinners and informal get togethers. They instilled in all five of their children the idea that hospitality is a way of life - not just something reserved for special guests or special occasions.

Through the years, Monte supported his brother Nick Monte, the family business and the Gurney's close family with his strong work ethic, ever present smile and dedication to perfection. To understand the enormity of his success, one only had to watch him welcome guests and hug one of his children or grandchildren at the same time. Monte was a humanist who never lectured or talked down to others; a leader and superb manager. He found common ground with senators and soldiers, scientists and common folk - a people person to the core.

A burial mass for Angelo Monte Sr. was held October 30, at 10 a.m. at St. Therese of Lisieux in Montauk; a 3 p.m. burial in Calverton National Cemetery followed.

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