Monica Kay Lang

Monica Kay (Malaske) Lang, 76, passed away peacefully on August 19 beside her beloved husband of 54 years, Jim.

Monica was the ultimate daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. She was the North Star of the family. Her unconditional love and resilience in the face of challenge were unmatched. Her sharp sense of humor and endless curiosity were infectious to all around her. She loved to read and discuss big ideas. She worked hard on her faith.

Monica was an alumna of Maternity of Mary, St. Joseph’s Academy, St. Catherine’s University, and University of St. Thomas. She was a dedicated teacher and active member of her St. Odilia community. She survived cancer in her thirties, learned to ski in her forties, picked up running in her fifties, and earned a Master's Degree in her sixties. She never quit. Ever. Her legacy radiates through her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Jim; children, Tony (Lori), Missy (Jay), Matt (Lisa), Angie (Tom), Libby (Joe), and Phil (Natalie); sisters, Kathy Malaske-Samu and Beth Livingston (Gary); sister-in-law, Cindy Clifford (Bill); her niece, Valerie (Jake and their children Christian, William, Monica, Lillian, Franklin); nephews, Joe, John, and David; and 18 grandchildren she so loved: Leah, Joseph, Ann, Isabella, Ava, Anthony, Dominic, Josephine, Casper, Olivia, Theodore, Francis, Mia, Clara, Henry, Catherine, Sophie and Charlotte.

She is preceded in death by her parents (Arnold and Ann Malaske); mother and father-in law, (Mildred and Clarence), and brothers-in-law, (Louie, Bill).

Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM Wednesday, September 6 at The Church of St. Odilia, 3495 N. Victoria St., Shoreview. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM Tuesday, September 5 at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home - Roseville, 2130 N. Dale St. at County Rd B, and at the church from 10-11 AM Wednesday. Entombment St. Odilia Prayer Garden.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations made to The Hendrickson Foundation. When asked why you are supporting, please include “The Boundary Waters Sled Hockey Combine,” which was started at Monica and Jim’s cabin.