Mark Michael Montoya

2010-01-07 / Obituaries

Mark Michael Montoya passed away quietly on Sunday, Dec. 27, surrounded by family and friends.

Mike was the devoted father of Erica, Ben, and Misha and the grandfather of Marcus, Sofia, and Ocean. As a long-time resident of Mariposa, he was an avid outdoorsman who was deeply involved with Boy Scouting and loved exploring the Sierra with his kids.

Mike was known for his generous character, integrity, and his warm, open countenance. He spent the last few years of his life active in Amma's humanitarian organization delighting in volunteer projects. His struggle with ALS showed us all his indomitable courage and sense of humor, and his family is so grateful to have shared its time with him.

An informal celebration of Mike will be held at the Sixth Street Cinema on Jan. 14 at 7:30 p.m. with the showing of the film “Baraka.” A formal memorial will be held in the spring.

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I knew the Montoya's when I

Submitted by Liz Frei Lee (not verified) on Tue, 2010-06-22 15:51.

I knew the Montoya's when I was a kid, living down the street from them in Simi Valley. I referred to the brothers as the "Montoya Boys", collectively. What a family. Many years later, they appeared at my home one early morning--Mike, Jim, Tom, and Erica. I couldn't believe it. I had three small children, and lived in a very tiny house. The "boys" filled my living room with many memories. Too many years have passed and I never knew the "boys" as men. I have read about them thru Facebook and hope all the wonderful memories live on thru the children, grandchildren, and so forth. The Montoya's will always have a dear place in my heart.

What a shock! Went to high

Submitted by Chris (not verified) on Wed, 2010-05-05 10:04.

What a shock! Went to high school with him. Great, wonderful person, always helpful and funny. Found out about his passing from an email, was very shocked. Bless you Mike and your family.

Mike was a very dear friend

Submitted by Richard Rega (not verified) on Mon, 2010-03-01 10:43.

Mike was a very dear friend to me since high school and throughout our contracting careers. He truly was a brother to me. I am deeply saddened by his illness and passing. I was fortunate enough to visit him a few times these last few months and express to him just how much he had influenced my life. Much of him still dwells in my heart and is indeed a treasure. My life is richer having shared a portion of life knowing him. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mark, Mary Lou, Jim, Tom, Bob, his children and all those who were dear to Mike.

I met Mike in Biology class

Submitted by Luana Crider (not verified) on Sat, 2010-02-20 08:23.

I met Mike in Biology class in high school and thought he was just a wonderful person. We lost touch but last year I found him on facebook and he told me about his ALS. I wish I could have seen him one last time. He always had a wonderful sunny smile and a big heart. I will never forget Mike and know he is in heaven watching and caring for all of us. I love ypu Mike.

Mike was a wonderful person

Submitted by Julie Bliss-Tyau (not verified) on Thu, 2010-01-14 23:57.

Mike was a wonderful person and his presence here on earth will be missed. His family was also amazing and I pray that God will give them strength.

I was looking for funeral

Submitted by Dixie Trabucco (not verified) on Mon, 2010-01-11 13:51.

I was looking for funeral information on a family member when I read about Mike.I am still in shock. I lost my son in 2002 as a result of ALS. I know the road that horrible journey takes. I didn't know Mike well but I have known his children, Ben, Misha and Erica for many years. My sincere sympathy goes to them and to the rest of his family and loved ones.

What a journey these last few

Submitted by Tom Montoya (not verified) on Mon, 2010-01-11 10:37.

What a journey these last few years with Mike has been. We shared an intimacy that very few brothers would probably have shared. I pray no one has to witness this disease first hand. Mike's amazing courage through this was a wonder to behold. His spirit lives on in my heart and will remain there until I can return it to him in Heaven. See you there, brother Tom

Mike was also a devoted son

Submitted by Debby Marks (not verified) on Sun, 2010-01-10 17:49.

Mike was also a devoted son to Mary Lou & Mark Montoya, a devoted brother to Jim, Tom & Bobby Montoya and a devoted cousin to me, my sister Kim, & our cousins Chuck & Alex Teague. He is GREATLY missed by us all!

Wow, I am currently not

Submitted by Cyndi Park (not verified) on Sat, 2010-01-09 17:56.

Wow, I am currently not living in Mariposa bu try to keep up with the local news. I was blown away to hear about Mike. He was a terrific man of whom I was quite fond. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Mark Michael Montoya

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