Florentino Montano, Sr.

Florentino Montano, Sr., born on November 24, 1937, in the vibrant town of Pecos, NM, departed from this world on July 4, 2025, during a serene transition embraced by the gentle opening of heaven's gates. He was a man defined by his generosity, laughter, and the spirited rhythm of life he cultivated through his passions and work.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Florentino’s career was a tapestry woven from diverse threads; he was a miner, a shift boss, and a talent in the kitchen as both a baker and cook. His greatest endeavor was perhaps the bakery he owned, where his delectable creations brought joy to many. Florentino's hard work was reflected in the achievement awards he received from mining, a testament to his dedication and perseverance.

Florentino's personality was a breath of fresh air, punctuated by humor. He had a remarkable gift for joking around and creating nicknames that made friendships bloom. A lover of music, he filled every corner of his life with joyous melodies and the dance of rhythm. Whether it was enjoying cheap beer—with a particular fondness for which, especially if it was free—or gathering around a campfire, Florentino knew how to celebrate life wholeheartedly. He instilled the value of hard work in his children and relished every moment spent with his beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, showering them with love and wisdom.

He will be profoundly missed by his surviving family, including his sons Florentino Montano Jr. (Emily), Wendell Montano (Yolanda), Terry Montano (Carla), Randy Montano (Yvonne), and his daughters Naomi Burciaga (Fidencio) and Amanda Velasquez (Rey). He is also remembered fondly by his brother Reynaldo Ortega, sister MaryAnn Rivera, and a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and friends who were touched by his kind spirit.

Florentino now joins his beloved wife, Emma, their son David, and grandkids Lawrence, Lester, Yvette, Geno, and Jenny, along with his parents Eluteria and Florencio Montano, and all of his brothers and sisters who awaited him. His legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will resonate through the hearts of those he leaves behind.

To honor his memory, visitation will take place on July 23, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Pecos, followed by a Rosary at 10:00 AM and a Mass beginning at 11:00 AM. His earthly journey will conclude with a burial at St. Anthony's Catholic Cemetery at 12:00 PM, where he will continue to watch over his family and friends, reminding them to embrace life fully as he did.