Monique Woel
In Loving Memory
August 8, 1930 – September 18, 2024
Monique Woel, Building Peaceful Bridges Board Member Emeritus, passed away Wednesday, September 18, at the age of 94. Monique, a former BPB Board Member and team member of founding our organization, will be in our hearts forever.
Monique, a remarkable woman whose life embodied the values of courage, compassion, and bridge-building. Her legacy will forever remain intertwined with the mission of BPB, where her leadership and passion for fostering understanding between diverse communities left an indelible mark.
Monique’s life was a journey across continents and cultures. Born on the picturesque shores of Brittany, France, she witnessed the resilience required to survive occupied France during World War II. It was in these formative years that she cultivated the strength, wisdom, and empathy that would guide her for the rest of her life. Her thirst for knowledge led her to England, where she met the love of her life, Eddie. Together, they embarked on a life dedicated to service, moving across 15 countries on four continents as Eddie worked for the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization. With each new home, Monique embraced the opportunity to bridge differences and bring people together, demonstrating curiosity, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
Monique’s contributions to BPB were vast and impactful. As a former teacher, she knew the importance of education and used her voice to elevate the stories of refugees and immigrants, helping communities understand the challenges they face. Her advocacy for refugees and new immigrants in America was a testament to her lifelong devotion to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world. Monique’s leadership within BPB was recognized when she was awarded our Bridge Builder Award, a recognition of her tireless efforts to “bridge the hearts and minds of all people.” As a Board of Director Emeritus, she led by example, showing what it meant to truly live out BPB’s mission of fostering multicultural relationships and integration. 
Monique’s love extended beyond her community to her cherished family. She and Eddie raised three wonderful daughters, passing on their values of empathy, curiosity, and kindness. In later years, Monique became a beloved grandmother to four grandchildren, and great grandmother to two, who will continue to carry forward her legacy of love and compassion.
Monique’s life was a testament to the power of building bridges. She lived with an open heart, embraced every culture she encountered, and tirelessly worked to create understanding among all people.
Her legacy will continue to inspire us at BPB and beyond, as we carry forward the torch she so graciously lit.
Monique Woel, thank you for your leadership, your wisdom, and your love. Your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you.
Monique Woel
In Loving Memory
August 8, 1930 – September 18, 2024
Monique Woel, Building Peaceful Bridges Board Member Emeritus, passed away Wednesday, September 18, at the age of 94. Monique, a former BPB Board Member and team member of founding our organization, will be in our hearts forever.
Monique, a remarkable woman whose life embodied the values of courage, compassion, and bridge-building. Her legacy will forever remain intertwined with the mission of BPB, where her leadership and passion for fostering understanding between diverse communities left an indelible mark.
Monique’s life was a journey across continents and cultures. Born on the picturesque shores of Brittany, France, she witnessed the resilience required to survive occupied France during World War II. It was in these formative years that she cultivated the strength, wisdom, and empathy that would guide her for the rest of her life. Her thirst for knowledge led her to England, where she met the love of her life, Eddie. Together, they embarked on a life dedicated to service, moving across 15 countries on four continents as Eddie worked for the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization. With each new home, Monique embraced the opportunity to bridge differences and bring people together, demonstrating curiosity, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
Monique’s contributions to BPB were vast and impactful. As a former teacher, she knew the importance of education and used her voice to elevate the stories of refugees and immigrants, helping communities understand the challenges they face. Her advocacy for refugees and new immigrants in America was a testament to her lifelong devotion to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world. Monique’s leadership within BPB was recognized when she was awarded our Bridge Builder Award, a recognition of her tireless efforts to “bridge the hearts and minds of all people.” As a Board of Director Emeritus, she led by example, showing what it meant to truly live out BPB’s mission of fostering multicultural relationships and integration.
Monique’s love extended beyond her community to her cherished family. She and Eddie raised three wonderful daughters, passing on their values of empathy, curiosity, and kindness. In later years, Monique became a beloved grandmother to four grandchildren, and great grandmother to two, who will continue to carry forward her legacy of love and compassion.
Monique’s life was a testament to the power of building bridges. She lived with an open heart, embraced every culture she encountered, and tirelessly worked to create understanding among all people.
Her legacy will continue to inspire us at BPB and beyond, as we carry forward the torch she so graciously lit.
Monique Woel, thank you for your leadership, your wisdom, and your love. Your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you.