MAGNET — Francis M. “Monkey” Etienne, 66, passed away peacefully Jan. 25, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Tell City Feb. 1, 1956, son of Justin O. and Helen (Reed) Etienne.

Monkey was united in marriage Oct. 28, 1978, to Rita Hagedorn at St. Mark’s Catholic Church.

He had worked for several years with Mike Solbrig Construction and enjoyed working alongside his brothers cutting timber. He was also self-employed, owning and operating his own trucking and sawmill business.

Monkey loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He enjoyed showing his love of the outdoors and took great pride in teaching children how to hunt and fish. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and taking them for rides on Papaw’s toys.

He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Rita Etienne of Magnet; his children, Natalie Wais (Brian) of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Matthew Etienne (Amanda) of Santa Claus; grandchildren, Myles and Paige Wais, Mark David and Jack Etienne, and expecting Julia Etienne in April; brothers, Justin “J.B.” Etienne (Jan) of Tell City, Phil Etienne (Joann) of Derby, Fred Etienne (Nancy) and Doyle Etienne (Lana), all of Magnet; sisters, Margie Edwards (Dave) of English, Ruth Ory of Mt. Pleasant, Monica Richard (Charley) of Magnet and Donna Briggeman (Mike) of Tell City; brother-in-law, David Sailings of Crandall; and sisters-in-law, Mickey McMahon of Magnet and Deanna Richardson (Tom) of Derby.

Preceding him in death were his parents; sisters, Mary Louise Etienne, in infancy, and Mary Sailings; brothers, Richard “Greg” Etienne and Dennis “Herman” Etienne; and a sister-in-law, Karen Ann Etienne.

Graveside services were Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023, in St. Augustine Cemetery. Rev. Brian Esarey will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Chemo Buddies, 3700 Bellmeade, Suite 118, Evansville, IN 47714, Heart to Heart Hospice, or St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Condolences for the family may be left at morrisfamilyservices.com.

Huber Funeral Home is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Monkey.