Born in Del Norte, Colorado, fifth generation Coloradoan, known as John or Monty by his friends. Known as Dad, Daddy, Papa and Pops by his family. Daddy passed away at eighty-nine; he was being cared for at home by his family, especially his devoted son. Our father was the last man standing of our elders’ generation.
Our earthly father was a self-made man, lifelong learner, animal lover, and a very just person with a kind heart. Later in life he enveloped his life into his Catholic faith.
Juan enlisted in the Army at barely eighteen, he was a Korean War Veteran, and a Drill Sergeant during the Vietnam War era. After twenty-five years of dedicated military service, he retired Master Sergeant/EB. Our father then embarked on a Civil Service career, he was most proud of his time as an Equal Opportunity Officer (EEO). Twenty years later he retired from the F. Carson Commissary as Manager of the meat department.
During his final hours, our father said he wanted to be left alone, he was dancing. Our father did not dance. He was finally dancing with our mother Carmen L. Montoya, who based away seventeen years earlier, at forty-nine years of marriage. He saved his only dance for her.
Our father is survived by his immediate family; Monty Montoya (son), Yvonne R. Frey (daughter, children Daniel, Jonathan, and Julie), Jacqueline T. Harshbarger (daughter, children Solomon and Carmen, Solomon Montoya (grandson, family; wife Stephanie, children: Nathaniel, Trevor, Donovan, and Alyceah), Carmen Richardson (granddaughter, husband Dan), and White Lightning, his beloved cat.
Papa, you are forever in our hearts. Always remembered, never forgotten. We thank Our Heavenly Father for the time He granted us with you.
Service is on Wednesday, April 28th, 2021 at the Shrine of Remembrance “America the Beautiful” Chapel, 1730 E. Fountain Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80910
