July 13, 1948-July 20, 2022

Dave Montano Sr., beloved Husband, Father, Grandpa, Brother, and Uncle was born in Monte Vista, Colorado on July 13, 1948 to Pete and Edujien Montano.  He passed away at Doctor’s Hospital in Modesto, California on July 20, 2022, just days after suffering a major stroke.  Dave lived his earlier years in Monte Vista, Colorado.  He was a member of the graduating class of 1967 from Sargent High School.  Dave honorably served in the US Navy and was a veteran of the Vietnam War.  He was very proud of his Native American heritage. He moved to Merced, California in 1980, where he worked for over 30 years in the manufacturing field.  He treasured the time he spent with his family and friends in California and Colorado.  Dave enjoyed fishing, hunting, and collecting classic cars. His prized possession was his fully restored 1970  Chevelle SS 396 he loved to take to car shows.

  He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Karen of Merced, California.  His oldest son, Jose David Montano Jr. and wife Lilia, grandsons, Jose David Montano III and Eduardo of Merced.  His youngest son, Nick and fiancee’ Caitlyn, of San Luis Obispo, California.  His sisters and brother, Frances Gutierrez (Angel), Esther Casanova, Julia Stanek, Lucy Archuleta, and Joe Montano all of Colorado.  Dave is also survived by a large extended family he loved very much.  He had a special place in his heart for his constant companion, a dachshund named Sweetie. 

   He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother In law, Jim and Gerry Cansler, brothers John, Ernie, and Pete, nieces, Amy Casanova and Debbie Garcia, and nephew Rodney.  A memorial service will be held at a later date in Colorado.