Mechthild Monika Watrous

November 7, 1940 - June 2, 2016

Essex Mechthild (Monika) Watrous of the Essex Center, passed away Thursday, June 2, 2016, with her family by her side. She was born November 7, 1940 in Nurnberg, Germany to Karl and Anni Rosen. Monika, the name everyone knew her by, moved to the United States in 1963. She became a U .S. citizen in 1998. She was a Dock Master for the Lake Champlain Ferry Company at the Essex Ferry Dock for 25 yrs, from which she retired. She was known as the "feisty little German lady" and made many friends there. You knew where you stood with her, she held nothing back. Monika loved to feed people and was a great cook. She was known for her German meals that she made, which many people got to enjoy. She enjoyed 35 yrs with her husband, Fred Watrous, until his passing Dec. 24, 2015. She is survived by her daughter, Angela (Todd) Pierce Sr. and their children Todd Jr. (TJ), and twins, Cole and Chase. Her sons, Randy Swires (Dottie) and his children Randi-Lauren and son Grayson, Kyli, and Seth Swires . Curtis (Donna) Swires of Miss. and Daughter in-law Lisa Swires and grandchildren, Allison and Aaron Swires of Wisconsin. She was predeceased by her husband Fred Watrous and her son Danny Swires. The family would like to thank the staff at the Essex Center for the kindness and care they gave to her. There will be no services per Monika's wishes. Memorial donations can be made to the Essex Rescue Squad. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court Street, Elizabethtown. To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com