Reuben Roy Montanio

Reuben Roy Montanio, age 72, of Antioch, California, passed away on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).  He met this final battle with the same hope and exuberance for life that defined all his days.

Reuben was born on July 20, 1950 in San Francisco to James Montanio (Hawaii) and Beatrice Tomas (Hawaii).  Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Stockton and eventually settled in Manteca, California where he was raised with his three siblings.  His childhood was an idyllic time in his life, which he recalled fondly.

In 1977, Reuben met his best friend Winona Kala and they soon after were married.  With Nona by his side, they raised two sons, Samuel and Jeromy, and built a home and life. 

His was a character increasingly rare and prized today: quiet discernment, contentment, and optimism. Reuben was glad to see you and truly wished you well.  He could clearly sense a person’s struggle while never losing sight of your capacity for better days.  If Reuben felt you needed to hear it directly, he might privately share a word of encouragement.  But more often, there was greater humility in how he conveyed his affection.  His encyclopedic volume of corny dad jokes, his telling of a story that moved him, or his sharing a song for a special occasion were all natural expressions from his heart.  If he could draw a smile, a shake of your head at his silliness, or reach you through music, his task was complete.  

And Reuben’s good humor obscured a studious and disciplined nature.  In fact, he had a laser focus on things that mattered most to him.  His callused fingertips were evidence of his life as a dedicated musician, singer and songwriter.  Sometimes he was the official coach and other times he was the ultimate fan, and always with a keen eye to every opportunity in a game.  And with a deep and enduring faith, he honed his calling and applied his gifts as a Pastor and Praise & Worship leader.

His legacy encourages all to live a life of love and service, and his memory remains an everlasting song, carried through the laughter of those he loved, on the wings of a well-played game, and the joyful promise of every tomorrow.

Reuben is survived by his loving wife, Winona Montanio; his sons, Samuel Montanio and Jeromy Montanio; his siblings Georgianna Smith, Melvin Montanio, and Yolanda A. Durham; and a very large circle of loving family and dear friends near and far.

In celebration of his life, a small private gathering will be held. All who loved Reuben are encouraged to share big laughs, an overflowing pupu platter, and a foot tapping melody in his honor.