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John A. "Chang" Montanez Sr.

FUNERAL HOME

East Lawn South Sacramento Andrews & Greilich Mortuary

3939 Fruitridge Road

Sacramento, California

John Montanez Obituary


MONTANEZ, Sr., John A. ''Chang''

September 12, 1948 - January 30, 2009

At age 60, Grandpa John is survived by Martha Lozano Montanez, his beloved wife for over 39 years. He was the beloved father of daughter Dena Ruiz (Tony), son Richard ''Big Butch'' Barraza (Jessica), and son John Montanez Jr. ''Jug'' (Jennifer). He was the most loving grandfather of eight grandchildren Erica, Richard ''Lil' Butchie'', Anthony L., Breanna, Zachary, Anthony R., Alexandria, and Marissa and one great-grandson, Xavier. He was preceded in death by his parents Demesio and Jessie Montanez and five brothers, Tony, Pete, Raymond, Manual, and Michael. Survived by eldest brother Jose ''Butch'' Montanez, sister Sally Murillo, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

John was a native and lifelong resident of Sacramento. He graduated from Sacramento High School and was drafted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He held many positions at Bercuit Richards and Blue Diamond Almond Growers for over 35 years.

Our Dad had a life long commitment to family and countless friends; he considered everyone his family and loved to cook and feed everyone. He also lived a quality life and we will miss him very much.

Viewing will be on February 5, 2009, from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 p.m., followed by Rosary Vigil at 6:00 p.m., all at Andrews and Greilich, 3939 Fruitridge Rd. Funeral Mass will be on Friday, February 6, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Rose's Catholic Church, 5961 Franklin Blvd. Burial to follow at February 6 at St. Mary's Cemetery. Funeral reception at Elk's Lodge, 6446 Riverside Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95831.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee from Feb. 3 to Feb. 5, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for John Montanez

Not sure what to say?





Allie Barraza

June 10, 2009

Papa John,
I will always love you. You and I have so many good times, but wont ever let them go.
I remember one day at the hospital and I read you a card; I remeber this because I have never seen you cry. That day I did, and I am happy to say that you were my Grandpa.

p.s. I will miss you with all my heart and happy to know that you are in heaven with you're family.

Love always Allie (Homegirl)<3

LINDA CERVANTES

February 9, 2009

MARTHA,
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY, I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

Ricardo Chavez

February 7, 2009

Martha and family,
My deepest sorrow and condolences
At this time in your lives.
Ricardo.

Ruben & Tina Vela

February 6, 2009

Our Deepest Sympathy and Heartfelt Prayers are with the Montanez Familia,

The first time I met the Montanez Family was at a place called Louise Camp near Bannon Street. There were alot of Families like the Morales, Sunny Adams, the Sanchez, the Mercardos, etc... That was a long time ago, but they were very Happy Days. My brother Frank and John were in the Army serving in Germany a long ways from home but good to see a familiar face. I also worked with his Father EZ at Southern Pacific Railroad.

John was a good Man with a Special Personality. He will be truly missed and never forgotten.

May God Bless you and be with you at this difficult time.

Albert and Lisa Gutierrez

February 6, 2009

Barraza Family,
Sorry for the loss of your loved one. Our prayers go out to you and your family, GOD BLESS TO ALL OF YOU.

Angelica Vazquez

February 6, 2009

Martha, Dena, Butch & Jug,
I am deeply sadden by the lose of your husband and father. Marissa loved him alot and he meant alot to her. He was a funny man with a big heart. He lived a good life with friends and family as you can see by the attendance at his Rosary. He will be greatly missed by all. I hope time will heal your broken hearts. Remember him always, I know Marissa will....Always, Angel

"Aunt" Shelly Garcia-Jimenez and Family

February 6, 2009

Jug and family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Myra Montanez

February 6, 2009

Martha
So sorry for your loss, thinking of you and your family at this time of
need.

Rosie Vicente

February 6, 2009

Martha, So sorry for your loss
I have good memory of all the boys.
Pete, Raymond,Tony,Manuel and Mickey...I'm sure they are all playing
pool....and having a drink...and I will have one for them too.

LALA Savala

February 6, 2009

Martha and family, I send my prayers out to you and your family

Herbert & Helen Meza

February 6, 2009

Martha and Family
Our deepest sympathy on your lost of a very good and respected man who will be missed by all who met and happened to become a friend of him and his immediate family and i
thank Stumpy for introducing me John many moons ago....

Maria Jordan

February 5, 2009

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Tony and Connie Herrera

February 5, 2009

We were so sorry to here about your loss. May the love of friends and family carry you through this hard time. You will be in our prayers.

Brigitt Graves

February 5, 2009

Oh, Uncle Johnny, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of your family, I always admired you and Tia Martha, (the kids, (butchie, dena and juggy), you treated your family so well, I remember when you guys used to live at the projects on Broadway, I remember the stairs, which fascinated me, it was the first ones I ever laid my eyes on and the kitchen was downstairs, I remember, I am 46 years old now and it must have been when I was about 8 years old, so you can imagine how many years it has been,I will never forget the steak my Uncle Johnny made, it is funny because the thing I remember is he put all kinds of pepper on it, it was hot I remember, and it was like beef jerky, so tasty and so delicious, another memory I have of my sweet Uncle probably when I was about 10 years old, it is when he bought my grandpa, his father EZ, (AKA Demesio Montanez) a big red Chevy truck, complete with a big tool box attached, grandpa was so proud of the fact that his very own son bought it for him, and my grandma would always gloat when she would talk of her son, she loved her son Johnny very much, I think HE was her favorite kid,(smile) he was a terrific son to his parents, he treated his parents with such tenderness and respect, it is funny that even as young as I was I remember this characteristic about my Uncle John, his generous and happy spirit are valuable legacys he left that will be with us forever, I cherish all the good memories Uncle John you gave the entire family, you are gonna be missed, Love, Brigitt (white girl)

Brigitt Graves

February 5, 2009

Oh, Uncle Johnny, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of your family, I always admired you and Tia Martha, (the kids, (butchie, dena and juggy), you treated your family so well, I remember when you guys used to live at the projects on Broadway, I remember the stairs, which fascinated me, it was the first ones I ever laid my eyes on and the kitchen was downstairs, I remember, I am 46 years old now and it must have been when I was about 8 years old, so you can imagine how many years it has been,I will never forget the steak my Uncle Johnny made, it is funny because the thing I remember is he put all kinds of pepper on it, it was hot I remember, and it was like beef jerky, so tasty and so delicious, another memory I have of my sweet Uncle probably when I was about 10 years old, it is when he bought my grandpa, his father EZ, (AKA Demesio Montanez) a big red Chevy truck, complete with a big tool box attached, grandpa was so proud of the fact that his very own son bought it for him, and my grandma would always gloat when she would talk of her son, she loved her son Johnny very much,, I think he was her favorite (smile) he was a terrific son to his parents, he treated his parents with such tenderness and a huge amount of respect, a true legacy he left for all of us, his family and friends, it is funny that even as young as I was I remember this wonderful characteristics about my Uncle John, I will miss my Uncle and I am very sad but I also am happy because you get to see grandma and grandpa and how exciting that will be, I will see you again in heaven Uncle John, me and my mom (Sally Murillo) and Lori and Rocky love you very much and I cherish all the good memories I have of you, and thank you for being my Uncle. Love, Brigitt (white girl)

Elizabeth "Lizzy" Estrada

February 5, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Irene Aiello

February 5, 2009

May the lord be with you to guide you through your time of sorrow. Our thoughts are with you.
Love,
Irene and Bob Aiello

John L. Torres Sr

February 5, 2009

John,Mickey,Pete,Ray,Manual,Tony were truly good friends to me. I was able to share some good times with them. I hung with Mickey alot . I think I met John first or maybe Tony, no matter, I'm lucky they let me be a friend. We always considered ourselves as cousins. I knew I was safe with them, No matter what, they would all be there for me. I feel real bad that I am unable to be there today.
I have to use oxygen,carry it with me, it is hard getting around, if you don't see me, please know that my prayers and my thoughts are there and I'm saying hello's to them guys right now. If you read this Butch ( Jose ), my prayers are with you, my thoughts are with you.
I would like to say to John's Wife, Daughter,Sons, I knew your Dad and he was a very good person to me. He's a good Man.
Sincerely, with deep regrets for your loss, my prayers,
John L. Torres Sr. e/m- [email protected]

Mychelle Estrada-Lopez

February 5, 2009

My Heart Goes Out to You, Martha Sylvia, James (My Best Friends) and Montanez Family

May God put forth his Blessing on you all during this difficult time of loosing a loved one, I know the pain you feel today, for I too am going through the tears and pain of loosing a loved one. I remember John & Martha's house during our years of all night partying and visiting Martha & John in their home knowing they were doing the same it was fun and memorable he was a Good Man and may he rejoice with our Heavenly Father and all his Loved Ones with him.

Diana Petrinovich

February 5, 2009

Martha,Dena,Juggy and family
I can't tell you how very sorry I was to hear about Johnny. The few times I've met him he was very nice. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

God Bless

Francine Reitzel

February 5, 2009

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Deedee Smith

February 5, 2009

My deepest sympathies go to the montanez family. I did not know John personally, but worked with Dena and John (Jug)- real good people to know.

Erica Bautista-Davalos

February 5, 2009

Barraza and Montanez family,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I am a family friend of the Barraza's and I had the opportunity to meet John at some of parties...from what I recall he was a great soul, who was very funny. Cherish the memories and have comfort in knowing that he is with God now resting peacefully. You are all in my thoughts, and prayers.

Shirley Pridmore Chavez

February 5, 2009

Martha and Family
My condolances for your loss of your love one Johnny. My prayers are with all of you. Martha be strong and have faith he is with Our Lord and is at peace now. One day you'll be with him again.

Sylvia Leon

February 5, 2009

Martha,Jug and Jennifer

We are sorry for your loss,our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the Montanez Familia.
Peace Be with You

Jose Villanueva and Sylvia Leon

Rick Rocha

February 5, 2009

My name is Rick and I new chang through his brother Raymond. I live accross the street and still do. I remember chang with his old truck, I loved it. We used to play pool and he treated me very well. I was only 18 at the time and I still remember him well. We later ran in to eacher later down a few years and he still remembered me. A great guy and will be missed right along with his brother Ray. See you in heaven bro.

Andy and Pete Sutton families

February 5, 2009

Cuz Martha and Kids,
Just found out about John. So sorry to hear he is gone. Sorry we haven't stayed in touch, but we think of you and the family all the time. We have fond memories of John.

Lorraine Duarte

February 4, 2009

Tia Martha, Cousins Butchie, Dena, Juggie & family

You took a big part in My Uncle John living life full, happy & content. I love and admire how Uncle John & Tia Martha created a beautiful close family legacy. Uncle John's love, compassion, extreme humor, generosity and quality of time were a blessing to so many.

Uncle John - I smile every time I think of all the funny moments. Like you calling me Long Legs. The way you used to exaggerate stories as we sat around the table enjoying your good food. When you came to my mom's (Sally Murillo) birthday parties & kept telling her, "Sally, quit trying to make us jealous with all the gifts you're getting." Other memories include those different pairs of alligator-skin looking shoes you used to wear until you started settling for the black house slippers. They way you'd call the shots and people would go along with you. So entertaining. Most of all, thanks for being there for my mom & brother Rocky. I'll always treasure the last get together in December & you were looking forward to having the next one. We all had such a great time & we'll do it again in your honor. These cherished memories will last a lifetime. I love you Uncle John.

My Uncle John orchestrated a wonderful life & it's comforting to know the Lord's arms were wide open for him whose humor & strength were amazing to the end.

Tia Martha & the family - you are all treasures in my heart. Much love and God give you strength and comfort. I'll see you soon.

Debbie Giron-Salmouneh

February 4, 2009

Dear Martha Jug & Family,

My condolances to you and your family. Martha just hold on to your precious memories that is what will carry you thru. Keep your husbands memory alive always. Stay close to GOD he will carry you every step of the way. Losing a loved one is so very hard,we just had my brother in law Ernie Ramos memorial last friday. God bless you all.

Lupe and Mona

February 4, 2009

Martha, Jug, Dena, & Butchie,

One of the memories I have of John is from about 25 years ago when the guys used to get together and have coffee clatches at each others house (John would cook, the guys would clean up), then drive around town, with Mona, in Bobby's little VW wagon.

Hope all of your memories help ease your pain and give you comfort through this difficult time. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Margaret Bartalini

February 4, 2009

Martha, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. may the happy memories bring you comfort in this tough time.

JoAnn Reyes

February 4, 2009

Aunt Martha, Cousin Butch, Cousin Dena, Cousin Juggy, and Family...

Uncle John meant so much to all of us. I beleive the Lord took him so quickly because he had first-class qualities. He was comical, artistic, strong, and humble. He always enjoyed mimicking my laugh which I'm going to miss sooo much. Several years back when we weren't joking Uncle John sat at a table across from me. He said, "Don't tell your Tia Martha what I'm about to tell you because she will get a big head"...It was the first time that we had a serious conversation. Uncle John told me that Aunt Martha meant more to him than she knew. He said she was a good woman and he was lucky to have her by his side. I will never forget the look in my Uncle John's eyes when he shared his feelings with me. You will be greatly missed, Uncle John...
Love Always,
Alex, JoAnn, and Ellana Reyes

Lou Mason

February 4, 2009

To the Montanez family,

We were shocked and saddened to read of John's passing. Lou meet John at South Sacramento Kaiser in January. They were roommates in room 403 on the 4th floor. John was a man who made a big impression on first meeting. During Lou's time at Kaiser he and John had a few late night chats regarding family, and shared a few laughs as well. Lou and I want to let the Montanez family know that even though we only had only met and knew John for a very brief time we both found him to be a kind, caring and honorable man. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.

Lou & Denise Mason

Snoopy Cervantez

February 4, 2009

My name is snoopy and I meet uncle john and tia Martha threw sally aka trochee some years back and haven’t stopped loving them since Ill always remember uncle john he just had the biggest heart ever he was always giving and caring for others when I use to go over he would make sally and I burritos and give me a ear full on how crazy he thought sally was but he told me to take care of her and told me he loved her and always wanted the best for her he was the best person ever and I m thankful for meeting him so I just want to say I will miss you uncle john and tia Martha keep strong and take comfort in knowing that you now have a special guardian angel watching over you.

NANCY DUPLANTIER (McAMIS)

February 4, 2009

MARTHA,DENA,BUTCH,& JUG,

SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT JOHNNY. HAVE MANY GOOD MEMORIES OF YOU ALL. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME.SORRY I HAVE'NT KEPT IN TOUCH MORE OVER THE YEARS.

Laura Franco

February 4, 2009

Big Rich,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Cherrish all the great memories and know he is in peace.

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Fontana,Kris,Alexis & Jazlyn Smith

February 4, 2009

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, we pray that God will take care of you and your family. Fawn,Kris,Alexis & Jazlyn Smith

Fontana: I remember once when me and my mom(Terry) went to John and Martha's. John told Martha let the little girl (I think he thought I was only 8 or 9) go out and play on the swing set in their back yard. Mom and Martha laughed and said, Fontana is 16 years old, don't think she wants to play on the swings. Mom told me and I just laughed, I thought that was pretty funny, that he thought I looked that young. John, Martha and her family will be in my prayers...Always

Keith McMahon

February 4, 2009

To Martha,Jug,Butch,Dena- First I wanna say sorry for your loss and we all Mark,Rob, and myself feel sad.Growing up in Hogan would of been so different without you guys especially John letting us play ball in the backyard and pool in the garage and also just the way you felt welcomed whenever we stepped a foot in your house John was always asking if we wanted something to drink and asked how we are doing. We all had so much respect and love for him and glad to say we knew such a great man. Especially Mark who feels terrible he can't say goodbye to John we all know Mark was there almost every day growing up and he loved John so much, Mark called from Afghanistan and told me to make sure me and Robert say good bye to John for him. We will NEVER forget him and we have nothing but love for you guy's.

Chris DeOllos

February 4, 2009

Cuz; You are gone to be miss very much,because their will never be anybody like you. We have always got along and a lot of respect for familys. You are now joint together with your brothers. and I know God is in center of it all. And cousin Eddie, Emiallo, I'm hoping the rest of your children will understand the responsible of family.

Carolyn Quintana & Frances Andrade

February 3, 2009

Martha & Family -

We are sorry to hear about John. May god comfort you during this difficult time. Our prayers go out to you and your family.

Desiree & Victor Montanez-Pryor

February 3, 2009

Dear Tia Martha & Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need, We will all remember so many memories of uncle John and all his jokes. It Brings me peace of mind knowing he will be in heaven with his brother Pete my father looking after us, if you ever need anything please do not hesitate to call, My love goes out to the family in this time of need!!

Dyian Thompson

February 3, 2009

Martha, I remember the good ole days, when we use to go to Reno, on the DMV bus and Jonny would have the menudo ready for us when we returned. He will be missed, but not forgotten. My prayers goes out to you, Dena, Butch & Juggie.

Jesse & Annette Montanez

February 3, 2009

Tia Martha, Dena, Butch And Jughead. I have so much to say just don't know where to begin so many good memories of my Uncle John he was like a Big Brother to me and a homeboy no matter what time I called him he always found time to ride with me or just have a cold one and some good laughs. It makes me feel real good inside knowing my son (Papa) got a chance to become as close as he did with Uncle John and family he sends his love and prayers as does the rest of my family if and when there should come a time you need anything me and my family are here for you all. May God Bless You and Guide You Through This Rough Time! With Love Jesse A Montanez Sr And Family.

Lalo,Francine,Lil Lalo, & Antonio Mata

February 3, 2009

Martha,Jug, Butch, & Dena,
I want to thank you all for being apart of me and my family's life. John was like a father to me and I am very honored and privileged to have been a part of his life. I will miss him, but I will never forget him.

Don & Marivic Ogle

February 3, 2009

MARTHA & FAMILY,
WE'RE VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.HE WILL REALLY MISS HIM SO SAD.

ROBERT GIRON

February 3, 2009

MARTHA AND FAMILY,
I WAS SADDEN TO HEAR ABOUT JOHN, MAY GOD BE WITH ALL OF YOU THROUGH OUT THIS TIME OF YOU LOSS.
GOD BLESS THE MONTANEZ FAMILY.

THE GIRON AND FAMILY

Dolores Davis

February 3, 2009

Martha, My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I know it will be hard. I just went through this with my brother Jesse and my husband Gene. Just remember the good times. My prayers are with you.
Dolores (Chavez) Davis

Maria (Molly) Brown

February 3, 2009

Dear Martha, Comadre my prayers are with you and the family. Just thinking back on the memories that you and Johnny shared with the family and friends thru the 38 years you had together is a blessing. He will always be with you all you have to do is pull a memory from your heart. May God be with you all.

TED BELL JR

February 3, 2009

UNCLE JOHN YOUR TOO YOUNG TO GO.I WILL LOVE AND CHERISH YOUR MEMORIES.

Joe Montanez III

February 3, 2009

You're the man Uncle John....I was relieved to hear God came and took you with him peacefully...with little suffering....The memories I hold of me coming up from a child to a young man around you will stay with me forever...whether it was coming to stay the night hangin out with Jug...playing ball in the backyard....shootin pool in the garage...kickin it at the bar listening to Uncle John along with all my Uncles and cousins... schooling me and all the youngsters coming up at that time....the same way it was ran it down to me....is the same way ill run it down to my son...his friends...and any of my younger cousins

and that lesson is respect is earned and not given

Thats how Uncle John represented himself and the Montanez name...just like our entire family...as a man that earned his respect by being a loving father to his children and a loving member of the Montanez family

He could walk ANYWHERE with his head up and nobody would have anything to say...and if they did...im sure they found out pretty quick the hard way...that my Uncle demanded respect...and gave it in return...to those who earned it...just as he did

If myself or anyone in our family ever needed help Uncle John would always be there...he was that type of guy

I live happily knowing that my Daughter (Alissa) and my son (Manuel) were able to know Uncle John before it was his time to pass

My son and daughter will hold the memory of their great uncle for as long as they live

My son still reminds me of the day he was playing in the backyard of Uncle Johns house with his cousin Raymond

Alissa was able to give Uncle John a big hug in his living room...where Uncle John wanted to be...In his house surrounded by his family...and not at a hosptial

Even though he was real tired that same night....being the strong man that he is....he found enough energy to yell out to Jug and say "take Joey over to the bar!"

I'll miss you Uncle John...believe that...but your name and soul will live forever

Say Hi to Uncle Manuel...Uncle Tony...Uncle Mick...and Uncle Ray for us...Im sure you guys are all sitting around the bar right now...and Uncle John is taking all the money in a game of spanish dice....We love you

Susie Tovar

February 3, 2009

Jug and Family,

Very sorry for your loss.

God Bless,

~Susie Tovar.

Nancy Rembulat

February 3, 2009

To Martha, Dena, Butch and Jug, I am so sorry for the loss of Johnny, I was very shocked when I heard. I thank Johnny for being a good father to Dena and Butch, you guys raised wonderful kids. He always welcomed me into your home and I was grateful. Martha, may God fill the pain your feeling right now with his love and grace for you and your family. If you need anything, please call.
Nancy Rembulat & Family

Raquel Tellez

February 3, 2009

Martha, Dena, Butchie, Jessica, John Jr. and Family

Our prayers are with you and your families.

God is our Rock – May God give you strength and comfort. May He keep you close to Him; Let His everlasting light shine upon you and your family in this time of need.

The Tellez Family
Ronnie, Linda, Raquel, Ray, and Maria

Shannon Walling

February 3, 2009

Dena and Family,
My sympathies are with you and your family during this time of loss. May the strength you find in God, your friends and family help you through this difficult time and those that will follow. In friendship......

DARREN JAMES

February 3, 2009

ONE OF MY OLDEST AND DEAREST FRIENDS...SORRY TO HEAR THE NEWS.LOTS OF GREAT MEMORIES OF MY FRIEND CHANG!!...D....

Monica Garcia

February 3, 2009

Martha, Jug.

I just found out about Big John, my prayers are with you and your family. I still remember the first time i met Big John. I was so afraid of him. he looked so mean. But he was the biggest teddy bear :) so loving and caring always making food for us. He will be so missed by everyone who knew him.

Love you guys

Monica Garcia (Mo)

Leslie Perry

February 3, 2009

Martha, I am so sorry to hear of your loss and my heart goes out to you, Dena, "Juggie" and "Butchie". I pray that God will heal your heart and continue to comfort you as time goes by.

Vince Emery

February 3, 2009

To My Nino Richard, Nina Jessica and family,
I am very sorry for your loss. And I will pray for you.

Love Vince

Loretta Perez

February 3, 2009

Richard, Jessica and Family. So sorry to hear of your loss and know you are in our prayers and thoughts. Much love to you and your entire family.

Cheri Daniels

February 3, 2009

My love & respect goes to Martha and family during this time of sorrow. Hold onto the "precious" memories that will keep you smiling & your heart at peace.

Much Love,
Cheri Daniels & Family

Gabriele Barrett

February 3, 2009

Martha,
I was so shocked today when hearing about your loss and I am very sorry. I have heard so many good things from you about your Johnny and kids over the many years I've known you. My thoughts are with you and your family. With time, the happy memories will lessen the sadness. Take care!
Gabriele Barrett

Angelica Amaya

February 3, 2009

Uncle Johnny,
I love you so much. You are my favorite uncle. You always make me laugh. Just like my mom. And that dime in your ear, I always wondered what that was about. I remember ever since I was little you never remembered my name and always called me Harmonica. Hahaha. Thank you for being apart of my life and being such an amazing uncle. I will miss you. Give Grandpa EZ a hug for me....God Bless you Tia Martha. You and and the kids are in my prayers.

Willie & Wendy Gavia and Family

February 3, 2009

Martha,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Monica Ruiz

February 3, 2009

To;Martha, Dena, Butchy,and Jug
The upcoming days will be difficult. Take comfort in one another, have faith and remember that you all are loved by many.

Henry (KIKI) Hernandez

February 3, 2009

To Martha and Family,
My deepest condolences in the passing of John. I first met John when I was a sophomore at Sacramento High. John had just come to the school from Gardenland. Some of the guys at Sac High wanted to gang up on him, but I intervened and said he was ok. Since then, we became the best of friends. John was a man who not afraid, but was still a friendly and kind person, just like the rest of the brothers were. It's sad to see as many brothers go to Heaven so fast, but maybe there is a mission for John in Heaven. Martha and family, this is the downside of life, but try to be strong and remember the good times that you had with John. Continue your journey as John is on his journey. May God bless you and the family. John will be sadly missed and may he rest in peace.

Wendell Kelley

February 3, 2009

To my second family all my prays from me and my family. Johnny was a big part of my life & I will miss him very very much.

Terry Morales

February 3, 2009

Martha and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. John will be missed, have faith and God Bless.

Desiree,Alexis,Ashley & Brianna

February 3, 2009

To Martha, Dena, Richard, Juggie & Family,

Remember that your
loss is shared
by many friends who care
and that you're in our
thoughts and hearts
and in our every prayer

May you find the courage
to face tomorrow
in the love that surrounds
you today.

May the love of friends and family
be a source of comfort to you
at this time

At this time of sorrow
may these truths sustain you..
...your loved one will always be
as close as a memory
and the God of all comfort
is always as close as a prayer.

It will be the little things
that you will remember
the quiet moments, the smiles,
the laughter.
And although it may
seem hard right now,
it will be the memory
of these little things
that help to push away the pain
and bring the smiles back again

Joleen Kaihe-Rodriguez

February 3, 2009

To Martha and the family. May god bless you and watch over you as you go through this difficult time. May you reflect on your memories together to help you through. My deepest sympathy for you loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Much Love

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Make a Donation
in John Montanez's name

Memorial Events
for John Montanez

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

East Lawn South Sacramento Andrews & Greilich Mortuary

3939 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, CA 95820

How to support John's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

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Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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Ways to honor John Montanez's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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