Melvyn Montano

Melvyn was born to Filomeno and Rufina Montano on March 29, 1936 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Melvyn attended St. Mary's elementary school in Albuquerque, and graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1954. He married his high school sweetheart, Marian in 1955. Melvyn and Marian had four daughters; Kristan, Karen, Kathryn, and Karla during their 65 year marriage. Melvyn had a long career in the military in the New Mexico Air National Guard from 1954 - 1999. He served in the Air National Guard in Vietnam in 1968. Melvyn served as the Adjutant General of the State of New Mexico under Governor Gary Johnson and he retired in 1999.

Early in his life, Melvyn enjoyed hunting, fishing, scuba diving, weight lifting and running. He and his wife Marian were very socially active with friends; and they enjoyed attending high school reunions every 10 years. They were both active members with their church and were members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Melvyn loved to go to UNM Lobo basketball and football games with his wife, Marian.

Melvyn was fascinated by and very interested in the history of New Mexico; and loved to read books about the Spanish colonization of New Mexico.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Marian

Melvyn is survived by his daughters, Kristan Montano (John Barnett), Karen Dyckes Y Montano (Bruce Dyckes), Kathryn Montano, and Karla Covington; and his grandchildren, Steven Covington and Yenenesh Montano.

The family is very thankful for the care and compassion from everyone at Avista Senior Living and Heartland Hospice.

Melvyn's life celebration will begin with a rosary to be recited on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St SW, 87102. Mass will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Annunciation Catholic Church located at 2621 Vermont St NE, 87110. Reception will follow in St. Magdalene Hall. Melvyn will be laid to rest on Friday, December 22, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery located at 501 N. Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM 87501.