On December 28, at the age of 92, this Italian who founded one of the most dynamic companies in the Quebec automotive industry passed away.

Arriving in Montreal shortly after the end of World War II, Ernesto Monaco remained until his last days within what became over the years the imposing Monaco Group.

After a decade during which he had devoted himself to integrating into North American and Montreal life by becoming a garage owner—this Mediterranean man had opted for selling parts.

From essential services to motorists, he moved in 1960 to this essential support to garage owners by founding Pièces d’auto Jarry, first called Jarry Auto Parts.

He then created Entrepôt de Montréal, opened distribution centres in Toronto and Ottawa, joined a North American buying group and adopted the banners that are now VIPSTOP and ASX–Atelier Service Xpert.

Sensitive and generous

Ernesto Monaco, whose funeral took place on January 10, 2023, also distinguished himself on the philanthropic level by creating the Monaco Group Foundation in 2010.

Nearly $3-million has already been donated to the Montreal Thoracic Surgery Research Foundation, the Montreal Heart Institute Foundation and the Canadian Cancer Society.

This absolute model of durability was undeniably as discreet and reluctant to show off as he was respectful, sensitive, generous and concerned about the well-being and health of all.

Autosphere offers its sincere condolences to his family.