Matthew Reece Montano

Matthew Reece Montano

 August 30, 2007 – December 26, 2024

Matthew Reece Montano, 17, met the eyes of Jesus on December 26, 2024. He was born on August 30, 2007, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Matthew was a senior at Moriarty High School, where his love for welding led him to excel in the hands-on, dual-credit welding program. He spent hours in the family shop, where he would work on his pickup trucks for hours, always keeping them running in tip-top shape. Matthew was no stranger to hard work. During the summer months, he spent his days in the mountains chopping wood. He was often helping his dad, Tha-Tha, and Paw-Paw by welding, hauling water, feeding the cattle, taking care of the animals, and ensuring the chores were done. Matthew loved the outdoors. Hunting with the guys since the age of 5 was a family tradition he cherished. He loved to spend time with his best friend and cousin, Jesse, just lounging on the couch at night and giving each other a hard time. Matthew was an active and faithful member of the Estancia Valley Catholic Parish. His strong faith led him to complete his sacraments at Our Lady of Mt. Caramel Catholic Church. Everyone who knew Matthew was touched by his positivity, smile, laugh, and kind heart. He served our Lord and Savior each day with his kindness and love for others. Our precious Matthew will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who loved him.

Matthew is preceded in death by his best buddy, Michael Salazar; Godparents, Orlando and Angie Gutierrez. He is survived by his father, Pete Montano Jr (stepmother Delberta Baros-Montano); mother, Shawna Wilcox; sister, Alessandra Talache; brothers, Luciano and Ambrosio Montano; grandparents, Pete & Bernice Montano; grandfather, Don Reece;(Domenica Sansone) Grandmother Carol Lowe (John Lowe), as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2024, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Moriarty, NM. The Rosary will be recited at 10:00 A.M. Mass will follow at 11:00 am. Father Angelo Marquez and Decan Randy Rodriguez will officiate.

Pallbearers: Jesse Lara, Francisco Romero, William Coleman, Matthew Montano, Clay Kiesling, Lonnie Pohl, and Eli Montano. Burial will be at the Montano Ranch Cemetery, Chilili, NM. Meal to follow at the Moriarty Civic Center.