Michael Carlos Montano Jr

Michael Carlos Montano Jr. was born on May 30, 1948, in Tucumcari, New Mexico, to Mike and Pauline Montano. From the start, Michael lived a full, vibrant life—one filled with faith, love, laughter, and the occasional unnecessary struggle (like making his family endure long summer road trips with no air conditioning). As a teenager, Michael found his passion for boxing and went on to win Golden Gloves, proving early on that he was both a fighter in the ring and in life. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1973, embodying strength, commitment, and resilience. Michael's journey led him to Casper, Wyoming, where he met the love of his life, Veloy. The two were married on September 23, 1983, blending their families into one beautiful, chaotic, love-filled adventure. Together, they raised five daughters and one son, a feat that no doubt required both patience and divine intervention. In 1981, Michael received his minister’s license and dedicated his life to spreading the gospel. His passion for music led him to form the gospel group Zion, alongside his brothers and wife, sharing their faith through song. He furthered his education, earning his bachelor’s degree, all while working as a supervisor in various nursing homes across Wyoming and Colorado—always caring for others with deep compassion and humor. Outside of ministry and work, Michael had a love for photography, jogging, fishing, and, most importantly, his beloved snack—a sleeve of peanuts dropped into an ice-cold Pepsi. He swore by it, and though not all of us understood the appeal, we certainly respected his commitment. Michael is survived by his loving wife, Veloy; his children Beatrice, Curtis, Sonia, Charlotte, Valerie, Reyna, and Erik; Brothers Robert, Reuben, Richard and Charlie, his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and countless friends and extended family members who were blessed to know him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mike Sr. and Pauline; his sister, Fadie; his grandchildren, Damien and Angel; and his great-grandchildren, Azaleah and Travieso. Though he has left this world, Michael's spirit will live on in the stories we share, the faith he instilled, and the lessons (some learned willingly, others forced upon us during road trips) that will stay in our hearts forever. Please join us in celebrating his incredible life on February 14, 2025. Let’s come together to honor a man who made an impact on so many, left us with unforgettable memories, and taught us all that sometimes, the best things in life are simple—like a handful of peanuts in a Pepsi

Michael Carlos Montano Jr

May 30, 1948 - February 4, 2025