Gabriela Monahan

Obituary

Gabriela “Gabi” Lisetta Monahan, 63 years, of Tampa, FL, passed away peacefully on
September 19, 2026, surrounded by her children and the people who loved her most.
Gabi was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose life was defined by the love
she gave so freely to others. She had a way of making the people around her feel cared
for, and she spent her life putting those she loved before herself. Her kindness, strength,
and selflessness touched more lives than she probably ever realized.
Gabi lived a quiet, beautiful life—one she created with love and intention for her family.
She found happiness in the comfort of home and in simple moments like walking her
dogs or tending to flowers in the garden. Her children were the greatest joys of her life,
and the bond she shared with them was something truly special. Gabi was the person you
called with good news, bad news, or simply because you wanted to hear her voice. She
made each day better just by being in it.
Gabi carried her deep love for her homeland throughout her life and made sure her Swiss
heritage continued to be a vibrant part of her children’s lives. She instilled a shared
passion for the majestic mountains and, of course, proper Swiss chocolate. Every year, a
favorite holiday tradition was gathering around the pot for Christmas fondue! Her home
was a living tribute to her heritage, filled with beloved pictures, trinkets, and memories
from Switzerland that made Swiss culture feel ever-present.
Gabi faced her five year battle with ovarian cancer with incredible strength and courage.
Though her family would have given anything for more time with her, they are deeply
grateful for every conversation, every laugh, every hug, and every ordinary moment that
now means everything.
Gabi is survived by her children and their spouses: Erin and Luis Colon, Patrick and Alyssa
Monahan, and Katie and Eric Nickle. She is also survived by her beautiful grandchildren
Elyas Colon, Gabriella Colon, Hunter Monahan, Sunnie Nickle, and Sophie Monahan, by her
brother Hansjurg Ziegler and his wife Susie Ziegler and their sons Jan and Noah Zeigler,
and by the many family members, friends, and neighbors who adored her.
Gabi will be remembered not simply for how deeply she was loved, but for how she loved
others. Her absence leaves an immeasurable space in the lives of those who knew her, but
the love she gave them will remain forever.
She was the most incredibly kind and gentle person, and she was so very loved.
A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at her home