Monie Vandervort

Monie Vandervort, often described as “Mr. Volunteer” in Fountain Hills passed away peacefully Saturday, April 20, at the age of 99 at Hospice of the Valley’s Eckstein Center near Scottsdale Healthcare-Shea.

Monie was described in a Times article as a “super volunteer who is a powerhouse of energy and positive spirit.”

He and his wife, Millie, came to Fountain Hills in 1975, “We really came here in a covered wagon,” he once quipped.

Looking for ways to keep himself busy after retirement from the advertising business, Monie threw himself into local civic concerns, particularly the schools.

Before the high school was built here, students were bussed to Scottsdale Coronado High School. There were concerns about the length of the bus ride and no means of communication if there was a problem. Monie worked to get cell phones for all the buses traveling back and forth to Scottsdale.

He was called “the man who builds schools,” for his efforts to garner support for override and bond elections.

The media center at Fountain Hills High School is dedicated in his honor.

Monie was honored as a member of the first group inducted into the Fountain Hills, Lower Verde Valley Hall of Fame, recognizing the efforts of those dedicated to the community and its success.

Monie’s wife, Millie Vandervort passed away in 2005. He is survived by sons, Fred and Bill Vandervort, and daughter, Marianne Wiggishoff as well as daughter-in-law, Barb Vandervort and son-in-law, Cyril Wiggishoff. Monie leaves behind four grandchildren, three grand-dogs and three great-grandchildren.

There will be a memorial service on Friday, April 26, at 3 p.m. at Messenger’s Fountain Hills Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to Hospice of the Valley.