Jose "Joe" David Montano

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph David Montano, a beloved son, brother-in-law, uncle and cousin on September 19, 2025. He was born March 19, 1951 in El Paso, TX.

He shared his love and life with his family and friends. He was a very good listener and a magnificent person with a dynamic love of life. His walk of peace and harmony reflected through his heart while helping others. His demure personality, admirable considerations, patience and love of life were apparent to all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleofas and Flora Montano, maternal grandparents, Transito and Emilia Gutierrez, paternal grandparents, Emeatrio and Josephita Montano, brother, Andy Montano and sister, Mary Ann Jaramillo. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Aladin Joe Jaramillo, nephew, Adrian Jaramillo and wife Terri, niece and Goddaughter, Mariah and husband Austin, great nephew and niece, Gavin and Brentley. Additionally, Joe David had many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family that will miss his fun-loving personality, wisdom and recounting of family history and stories. He had many special friends including Wanda Chavez (deceased May 2025), her grandson, Nick Chavez and Nilo (Fritz) Salgado-Fernandez.

Joe David attended Albuquerque High School, the University of New Mexico and Trinity University in San Antonio, TX, where he earned his Masters Degree in Urban Studies. He started his career as a Planner at the Middle Rio Grande Council of Governments (1974 - 1978). He then worked from 1978 to 2001 as an Albuquerque City Planner for Transportation, although his position encompassed a broader spectrum. He was consulted for all future plans and development for the City of Albuquerque. According to his co-workers, the City Engineer and City Hall depended on him for everything. He had a "computer mind" and excellent recall. He was dynamic, intelligent yet humble, compassionate, kind, considerate, respectful, calm, patient and non-judgmental. After his retirement from the City of Albuquerque, he worked as a Senior Planner for Mark Goodwin and Associates (2003 - 2006).

He was a member of St. Joseph on the Rio Grande Catholic Church where he proudly participated in the choir. He also mentored Albuquerque Public School middle school students who were in need of guidance and direction. His hobbies included travel, photography and technology.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew him and he will hold a special place in our hearts. The family is grateful and offers a sincere thank you to all who cared for him at Fairwinds Rio Rancho Retirement Community.

A rosary will be recited on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 - St. Joseph on the Rio Grande Catholic Church at 8:15am with a mass at 9:00am. A burial will be held following the mass - Gate Of Heaven Cemetery at 11:00am.