|
Willie Montano, 89, a long time resident of Los Lunas, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2002. Willie met the love of his life"Espidy", the girl one house over, while growing up in San Mateo, NM. They married in 1935 and moved to Gallup for seven years. They later moved to Los Lunas in 1947, where they lived the rest of their lives. Willie was a proud retiree after 30 years of dedicated service from Sandia Laboratories. He was a talented musician who could play every musical instrument. Every time there was a celebration at the Belen Senior Citizens Center, he could be found playing in the band. Willie was well known for his chili, corn, and fruit tree orchard. In his younger years, he loved to hunt big game and always came home with a trophy. But his true pride and joy was his grandchildren and family. Preceding him in death was his beloved wife of 62 years, Espidy B. Montano in 1997; his three sisters, Refugio Gonzalez, Demetria Gonzalez, and Lala Jaramillo; and one brother, Candido Montano. He is survived by his children, Johnnie Montano of Albuquerque, Bessie Martinez, and Vickie Baca both of Los Lunas, Karen Romero of Tome; his 12 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Eugenio Montano; one sister, Ester Banner both of Albuquerque; and a nephew, Max Montano Sr. who was raised by Willie's mother, Adela Montano. He is also survived by his many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. A viewing will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 6:00 p.m. in the Romero Funeral Home Chapel. A Funeral Service will take place on Friday, September 27, 2002 at 10:00 a.m. in the Romero Funeral Home Chapel. Pallbearers will be Crystal and Phillip"Shorty" Romero, Larry J. and Wayne Baca, and Genevieve B. Martinez. The honorary pallbearer is Bernie Martinez. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen, NM 87002.
|
