Henry F. Montoya

Henry F. Montoya, age 84, dedicated father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and Air Force career man who served his country in both the USAF Strategic Air Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) passed away Sunday, May 31, 2015. Henry was a maverick and patriarch ahead of his time. He rose from a small town and childhood adversity to chart a course for his family that would take them on a journey of domestic and international adventure, and introduce them to many new cultures. During our country’s civil rights movement, Henry surmounted racial barriers as a minority who climbed the ranks in the armed forces as a teletype operator and whose contributions were a precursor to modern computer technology. Confidence in his work and trust placed in him soon landed him a high security designation by his superiors during the Cold War. He was known for his compassion and generosity, always there to help a person in need. Henry was a self-made man full of pride in his work ethic and career, who also balanced his time as a talented artist, sharp dresser, connoisseur of chili and New Mexican fare, automobile and sports lover, and master of the jitterbug, among other dances. He held a special place in his heart for the innocence of children and animals. His legacy lives on in those he inspired, educated, supported, protected and touched. One of his last wishes quotes a verse from St. Francis of Assisi: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” Dad, to one who was so much to so many, may you rest in peace. We love you. Henry is survived by his soul mate, Velma Lucero; children, Jerry Armijo, Kathrine Montoya, Velberta Coando, and his grandchildren, Martin Bustos, Lenny Bustos, Eric Bustos, Starr Bustos, Jeremy Armijo, Anthony Coando, Sonia Gonzalez-Garcia, Christopher Coando, and Marissa Pasibe; great grandchildren, Erica Bustos, Elias Bustos, Lenny Bustos II, Katherine Bustos, Katie Bustos, Kelly Bustos, Tommy Bustos, Kirk Ferguson, Anthony Bustos, Elizabeth Bustos, Eric Bustos Jr., Zoe Johnson, Quinlan Garcia, Trinity Pasibe and Noah Coando and great great grandchildren, Thomas Cervantas and Elijahh Sutton. He is also survived by his brother, Harold Montoya. He leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews. Also touching his life were his friends, especially those in the military community. Henry was preceded in death by his mother, Pablita Mondragon; father Onesimo Montoya; sister Josephine Montoya, and his brother, Orlando Montoya. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, June 29 at 11:00 a.m. at FRENCH - Rio Rancho. Interment will follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with full military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities. Please visit our online guestbook for Henry at www.FrenchFunerals.com FRENCH – Rio Rancho 1950 Pine Rd NE Rio Rancho, NM 87144 (505)338-2000

Henry F. Montoya

June 12, 1930 - May 31, 2015