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Deacon Sotero Montoya, 79, born in Cuba, N.M. on April 22, 1920. Mr. Montoya, lived a full and eventful life. He moved to Albuquerque in 1952 and began his career working for the nuns at St. Joseph's College. Mr. Montoya continually worked to serve his fellow man, first as a sailor during World War II on the USS California, then teaching elementary school for 33 years in Jemez at Valle Vista, Carlos Rey and Mary Ann Binford in Albuquerque. He was a president of the neighborhood association which gave Westgate Heights its name. Mr. Montoya, became a Deacon and Co-Pastor at Santuario de San Martin helping to start the newly formed parish. Mr. Montoya was married for 54 years to his beloved wife, Rebecca. He is also survived by his children, Mary Ann Chavez and Dennis, Mildred Giannini and Charles, Agnes Coffelt and Bob, Fermin Montoya and Joanna, Theresa Garcia and Joe, Elsie Stines and Alex (deceased), Francis Montoya and Nancy, Joseph Montoya (deceased), Elizabeth Lucero and John, John Montoya and Joann and James Montoya; sisters, Mary Montoya, Basilia Cordova and husband, Pablo and Elfides Angel; one brother, Erineo Montoya and wife, Casilda; 36 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Mr. Montoya was a member of the Catholic Church and a Veteran of the U.S. Navy serving in World War II. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. at San Martin Church, 8301 Camino San Martin S.W. with visitation at the Church after 6:30 p.m. Father Dan Farris, Celebrant. A Rosary/Communion Service will be held Wednesday at twelve noon at San Martin Church with visitation at the Church after 11:45 a.m. Interment will follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:20 p.m. Pallbearers will be Paul Giannini, Dennis"Tudd" Chavez, Marc Salazar, Jesse Lucero, Alex Stines and Joe Garcia. Honorary will be Mario Garcia and Mario Montoya. Gabaldon Mortuary, 1000 Old Coors Rd SW in charge of arrangements.
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