Lee B. Monical

Lee Monical, 52, of New Baden, passed away peacefully at home on April 21, 2026, surrounded by his boys and the family he loved so deeply.

Lee was a man defined by quiet strength, steady presence, and an unwavering devotion to his family. He raised five sons, Kodie, Kyle, Kameron, Kaleb, and Kolin, who were the center of his world and his greatest pride. To them, he was Dad, but to so many of their friends, he was simply “Papa Lee,” a title he carried with honor, always offering guidance, a listening ear, and a place where everyone felt welcome.

He shared a special bond with his stepdaughters, Maddison and Camille Dufault, the daughters he had always longed for, and his stepson, Joseph Dufault, a welcome addition to make an even 6 boys. His love for all of his children was constant, evident in everything he did and the life he built around them.

Lee had a true calling in serving others and spent many years working with various ambulance services. It was more than a job to him; it was a passion. He took pride in helping people in their most critical moments and formed lifelong friendships with his partners and coworkers along the way. The time he spent on the ambulance was something he deeply valued and often spoke about with pride.

Lee also loved the open road and found freedom on his motorcycle. Some of his favorite memories were his rides with Liz, “Send it Sunday” rides with friends, and making it to Sturgis in 2023. Riding his Harley was something he truly enjoyed. Whether at home with his family or out on the road, Lee lived simply, loved deeply, and showed up every day for the people who mattered most.

For the past 20 years, Lee has also built a dedicated career with Clean Harbors, where he has embraced the challenges of his work and found it deeply rewarding. He took pride in what he did and formed strong bonds with his coworkers and customers, many of whom became lifelong friends. His work ethic, reliability, and character left a lasting impression on everyone he worked alongside.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth (Liz) Dufault; his mother, Cynthia Monical (Rakers); his children, Kodie Monical, Kyle Monical, Kameron Monical, Kaleb Monical, and Kolin Monical; his stepchildren, Maddison Dufault, Camille Dufault, and Joseph Dufault; his sisters, Tammy Monical and Sarah Monical; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Richard and Marcella Rakers; his uncle, Kenneth Rakers; and his aunt, Susan Whitaker.

Lee leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and family. The memories he created and the lives he touched will remain with those who knew and loved him always.

Services will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, with a short motorcycle/Jeep ride from the Juicy Peanut (all are welcome) in Mascoutah to Nordike Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Nordike Funeral Home. A lunch will follow at the New Baden Legion for anyone who would like to attend.

The family asks that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.