Monika Annemarie Strong, of Milford, Massachusetts, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at the age of 68.
Monika was the daughter of the late Günther Biehl, and survived by her parents, Frederick and Toni Strong; her children, Kristina Mentzer and her husband Justin and Lauren Masseur and her husband Michael; her brother, Hermann Biehl; her sisters Ursula Page and Jennifer Wood; six grandchildren, Parker Masseur (8), Anna Mentzer (7), Connor Masseur (6), Ethan Mentzer (4), Grayson Mentzer (4), and Zachary Masseur (2); and seven nieces and nephews.
She was born in Pirmasens, Germany on November 13, 1952 and resided there until moving to Newton, Massachusetts at the age of nine. She graduated from Newton South High School in 1971 and went on to receive her license in Cosmetology from Robert & Richard Beauty School in 1974. Monika was a passionate hair stylist for more than 45 years, having owned her own salon, Reflections of Medfield, for several years.
Being a hair stylist was a fitting profession for Monika, who spent every moment of her life making others look good in one way or another. As a devoted mother to Kristina and Lauren, she would regularly share stories of pride, admiration, and love for her girls. The same could be said about Monika’s sisters, parents, nieces, nephews, and six grandchildren, who were the light of her life and the center of her world.
It could be said that Monika’s life was not defined by accomplishments of her own, but rather by those of everyone around her.
Guided by her faith, it was commonplace for her to share her modest means with friends and family, and even people she didn’t know, in their times of need. When she wasn’t busy taking care of clients, lending an ear to family and friends, or playing with her grandchildren, Monika spent her time creating beautiful artwork. Typically working with pastels, she created dozens of sketches of Pirmasens and other quaint villages reminiscent of Europe. Occasionally, she would do commissioned pieces for friends and family, and spent countless hours drawing whimsical bedroom murals for her nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
Like artwork, Monika’s mission was to brighten everyone’s spirits, and she did so every day of her life.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her calling hours in the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. Thursday April 15th, from 5-7PM.
A funeral Mass will be held Friday April 16th, in St. Mary's Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin at 10AM. To view the funeral Mass click stmarysfranklin.org
Her interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Monika Strong, who is a breast cancer survivor. Gifts, which will support cancer research and patient care, can be directed to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or Donate Here.
The Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. is honored to assist the Strong Family. Guestbook/directions www.oterifuneralhome.com