Monty, Cat of Ave Maria, R.I.P.
- Details
-
Published on Wednesday, 23 July 2014 21:36
At age 15, Montana, the Abyssinian cat who was featured in the children's story, Monty, Cat of Ave Maria, passed away peacefully after having many health problems over the past half a year.
In the fictionalized story, Monty explores the town of Ave Maria, and even finds his way into the Oratory.
"Many residents and tourists came to know Monty, who was an extremely friendly cat, and he enjoyed meeting them all," says Patricia Sette, a town resident, who authored the book. "I particularly remember being contacted by a mother from another state. Her daughter had read the book over and over and was hoping to meet him when they visited Ave Maria. The little girl was thrilled when we were all able to get together at the Bean."
"I was blessed to be able to work with such a gifted illustrator as Tom Cardamone, who passed away in 2012, and his wife Ann, who helped with typeface and layout. Tom's skillful illustrations brought Monty and the town to life for many children."
Montana's affectionate nature suited him in his "work" as an unofficial therapy cat who made weekly visits both to an assisted living center and to a psychiatric ward, Ms. Sette says. left, Monty making a Christmas-time visit dressed as an elf
"Whether strolling around town on his leash, or meeting people at books signings, Monty provided me with the opportunity to meet many people who liked to share stories of their own cherished cats. He was a wonderful cat who brought happiness not only to our family, but to many other people."
Click here for Ave Herald Editor Patricia Sette's remembrance of Monty in the Naples Daily News Collier Citizen.
Above center, Monty with Doreen Papadatos, daughter of his book's illustrator, Tom Cardamone.
