Vincent "Vinnie" Monico Jr.

Jan 14, 1947 -

Oct 14, 2020

Vincent "Vinnie" Monico Jr. moved to the Great Choir in the Sky on Oct. 14, 2020, at the age of 73.

Vinnie is survived by his brothers, Angelo and Joseph Monico of Baltimore, Md. He was preceded in death by his father, Vincent Monico Sr.; and mother, Venneranna Monico (nee Vitale) of Baltimore; and his biological son, Elam Wencel of Kingman, Ariz.

Vinnie was born on Jan. 14, 1947, in Baltimore, where both of his parents were children of Italian immigrants. Vinnie spoke only Italian until he attended elementary school, where the nuns made sure he learned English. Although he did briefly join the family business of barbering, Vinnie always had a passion for singing and left home at a young age to pursue music full time. That decision led him to play in various bands and explore bar venues across the country for the next 40-plus years in places like Pennsylvania, North Dakota, Texas, etc. and eventually Anchorage, Alaska.

Vinnie lived a simple life pursuing what he loved: music. He was a frequent attendee at the 35+ Singles Dance Club, the VFW 1685 jam session and the Anchorage karaoke bars. With his paper hat and fancy walking stick, Vinnie was affectionately referred to around town as the Godfather of Karaoke. Many karaoke regulars in Anchorage owe their start to Vinnie and his words of encouragement. Over the last 3 years, he had built a tight network of friends, consisting of bar patrons from about a dozen local bars, that can best be described as a karaoke family. He will be missed by many.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Carousel Lounge on Oct. 26, 2020, at 7 p.m., and a traditional Memorial Service will be held at VFW 1685 on Nov. 1, 2020, at 3 p.m.