Stephan Carey Monto 9/6/79 – 12/13/20
We are all the sum of our total journey on earth. Stephan died from depression and substance use disorder by taking his own life. He built beautiful homes, He surfed the ocean, over and over his last dollar went to anyone in need, Injustice enraged him, He started over again and again with determination and optimism.
   His pain, over time, gradually blew over his joy like a great sand dune smothering out the light. The many messages we’ve received reflect the progress our culture has made in breaking the stigma of mental health, substance use disorder and suicide. Your loving words of his struggle have allowed us to grieve authentically and openly.
     On the Big Island of Hawaii, his brother, Jonathon, found land to give them both roots to live surrounded by nature. Stephan was determined to help build a home for his brother. In classic Stephan style, he had three major projects started but getting to completion eluded him. It’s true, there is half a bath, a frame for loft, and a pile of materials from homes destroyed by the volcano that Stephan and Jonathon secured to build new structures. We want to honor Stephan and give his spirit a place of peace and beauty near his brother. In lieu of flowers, we have created a fund to complete his building projects.