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Reuben J. Montoya, a resident of Bernalillo passed away on Sunday, January 17, 2010 at the age of 91. Reuben was born on September 18, 1918 in Pena Blanca, New Mexico to Jose Manuel Montoya and Maria Rita C de Baca. Reuben is survived by Lucy, his loving wife of 66 years, children Rita Montoya, Barbara Griego and husband George, Annette Montoya, and Danny Montoya and wife Lisa. He is also survived by ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Reuben graduated from Pena Blanca High School in 1936 and was a veteran of the United States Air Force, stationed at Marana Air Base in Tucson, AZ and Williams Air Field in Chandler, AZ during World War II. Upon completing his tour of duty in 1945, Reuben worked in the Sandoval County Clerk's office and also owned a general store in Bernalillo. In 1951, Reuben joined Sandia National Laboratories and retired after thirty years of service in 1981. Reuben was very active in the community of Bernalillo serving twelve years on the Bernalillo School Board, including two years as President. He was a long time member of the Coronado Soil and Water Conservation District, serving most recently as Chairman of the Board. Reuben also had a strong interest in the history of Sandoval County and was a member of the Sandoval County Historical Society, contributing many articles for the newsletter during the time he served. Reuben had a high interest in politics since a very early age and helped many local and State politicians with their campaigns throughout the years. The highlight of his political activities was traveling around the state with his cousin, the late U.S. Senator Joseph M. Montoya during his many re-election campaigns. Throughout his life, Reuben enjoyed working his farmland in Pena Blanca that has been in his family for generations; raising alfalfa just as his father and grandfather had done. While in Pena Blanca tending his farm, Reuben enjoyed the company of his lifelong friend Jerry Leyba. A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 pm, Friday, January 22, 2010 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 301 Camino del Pueblo, Bernalillo, NM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. A special thank you to the nurses at the Progressive Cardiac Care Unit of Presbyterian Hospital who provided such special care during the last few weeks. A heartfelt thank you to the staff at Presbyterian Hospice who provided specialized and dignified care at Reuben's home. Thank you to the many relatives and friends who showed so much care and concern over the last few weeks; each and every one of you made a difference. For those who wish, you may send condolences to the family at www.danielsfuneral.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124 505) 892-9920
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