A loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather who supported his entire family as strongly as he did his community. He never ceased to amaze his family with his strong support, generosity and helped to build a sound foundation for them beginning with a strong faith in God.
Joe C. Montoya was a long time resident of Flagstaff, Arizona, loving family member and community leader whom deceased on December 26, 2008 following heart complications. He was born in Las Vegas, New Mexico in 1932 and then came to Flagstaff with his family and has lived here for the past 60 years. He graduated from Flagstaff High School and shortly after enlisted in the United States Marine Corp where he served in the Korean conflict. After his service Joe attended the former Arizona State College. Early in his life Joe became involved in many community issues due to his deep concern for equal rights, job employment, the elderly and the poor. He was a pivotal member of the community who helped to initiate several programs such as: the Southside neighborhood council, grassroots project and other social services such as aging, energy assistance and transportation.
He went on to become the first community services project director in 1973. A lifetime of interest in helping people who have historically been ignored is a way of life for Joe. Under Joe’s leadership Coconino Community services received numerous awards from local, state and national associations. He retired from Coconino County Community Services in 1997. He continued to volunteer for Hospice, St. Vincent de Paul, San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church, Coordinating Council on Mexican-American Affairs, Toys For Tots and other various organizations.
Joe is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Margaret, daughters, Gloria (Husband Albert), Rosemary and his grandsons, the pride of his life, Julio and Joseph. He was preceded in death by his only son Joseph. Joe comes from a large family and has many family members still alive brother Solomon and sisters Jenny, Carmen, Eppie and Fable. He leaves behind many friends, family, comrades and other special people in the community.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that anyone wishing to make a donation to send them to the Flagstaff Adult Center, Hospice, or St. Vincent De Paul.
