Nick Gilbert Montano

Nick Gilbert Montano, aged 78, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026, in his hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born on March 18, 1948, Nick lived a life deeply rooted in faith, service to his country and community, and devotion to his family.

A proud graduate of Valley High School, Nick went on to serve his country with honor as a US Army Sergeant and Vietnam Veteran. Following his military service, he dedicated over 25 years of his life to protecting his community as a Sergeant with the Albuquerque Police Department. Even after his retirement from the force, his commitment to protecting others continued through his work as a school safety instructor with Poms & Associates. Nick valued education deeply, earning significant college credits and never losing his natural curiosity about the world. Nick was a man of many talents and passions; he was an avid hunter, fisherman, painter, guitar player, and marathon runner. A true craftsman, he possessed a passion for construction and was known by all as someone who could build absolutely anything. Above all, Nick walked faithfully with the Lord throughout his life, a journey marked by his baptism in Israel and his active fellowship at Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley of Belen, NM.

Nick is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Montano; his daughters, Deborah Lucas (husband, Robert) and Michelle Wesley (husband, Zachary L.); his cherished grandchildren, Shanice Griego (husband, Aaron), Lashay Wesley, Davon Wesley, and Zackies Wesley; and his adored great-grand-children, Chevella Wesley, Samson Wesley, Kyra Griego, Eliana Wesley, and Olive Griego. He also leaves behind his brother, Isidro Montano; nephew (raised as a brother), Dennis Montano (wife, Reyna); niece, Donna Herrera; brother-in-law, Tacho Gurule; and a large, loving network of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Juan Isidro Montano; his mother, Mary Montano; his brother, Edward Montano; and his sister, Fidelia (Del) Garcia.

Our family is profoundly grateful to the dedicated teams at the Raymond G. Murphy VA, Luna Vista Home Based Healthcare, and Bosque Trails Hospice for the compassion, comfort, and dignity they provided to Nick.

Please join us as we say our final goodbyes and celebrate the life of Nick on Thursday, October 1, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at FRENCH - University, followed by a burial at 12:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park. We will gather to share memories and comfort one another at a reception back at FRENCH - University at 12:30 p.m.