Michael Montague

1945 - 2021

Michael (Monty) Montague

Having just celebrated his 76th birthday days before in our outdoor patio followed by a family zoom celebration, we lost my beloved husband, my soul mate, Mike Montague (Monty), at home related to a heart condition on January 22, 2021.

A fourth generation San Franciscan he attended St Paul's School, Archbishop Riordan High School, CCSF, and San Francisco State where he completed his BA in history and earned his teaching credential. He taught and coached in the South San Francisco Unified School District for 30 years. Prior to teaching, Mike became a part time SF Recreation and Parks Director with 45 years of service, including the summertime Stern Grove Concerts, stints at Moscone Play-ground, the Harvey Milk Photo Center, and the Log Cabin in the Golden Gate Park. In all of these roles he was dedicated, conscientious, and respected by all.

Mike met Kathy Gallagher in 1971, they were married 3 years later and soon moved into their home on Crestlake Drive. Married 46 years, Mike and Kathy were a great team each supporting one another. He was the best father to his 3 daughters, Leah (Ben Versal), Megan (Tom Sweeney) and Kelly, and played a huge role in their lives. A steady presence, he was actively involved and supported their paths throughout their lives. Needless to say he adored and was adored by all 6 of his grandchildren, Brianna, Maya, and Garret Versal and Nicholas, Henry, and James Sweeney. His grandchildren will remember grandpa for the countless books he read, listening attentively to their stories, and summer trips to Tahoe, Colorado and 'camp'. He leaves behind his younger sister Barbara Gaudinier (Rick), with whom he had a close relationship, a large extended family and many friends.

A continuous theme throughout Mike's life was his commitment to fitness. In his younger years, he played pick up basketball games with his buddies at Douglas Park. He took on the infamous Dipsea race and completed countless Bay to Breakers. Kathy said he was always such a good influence on her in so many ways and he would reply, likewise. They joined the YMCA Ston-estown and were active members for almost 40 years. In later years, Mike enjoyed biking with Kathy, taking walks in the neighborhood, and swimming at the Koret Center and Janet Pomeroy Center. He found a passion for cycling classes at the Y. When COVID closed the gym, Mike kept up his cycling on his stationary bike in the garage. It brought Mike immense satisfaction to be as active as he could be. He shared his love of sports with his daughters and he was their biggest cheerleader. He attended countless swim meets, soccer, basketball, volleyball games, and dance recitals. In recent years, he had an opportunity to watch his grandsons play sports and offer them his expert pointers.

In the beautiful settings of Yosemite, Hawaii and Lake Tahoe he and his family enjoyed the great outdoors. He was happiest when he was sitting by the pool reading his book. Ever the gracious host, Mike will be remembered for his signature home cooked dinners and his warm inclusion of family and friends. A Giants fan throughout his life, Mike shared his love of baseball with all. He had the opportunity to take several spring training trips to Scottsdale with Kathy and his mother-in law, Juanita Gallagher.

Mike always wanted to be of help to others. Mike was an exemplar volunteer and like any good Dad, Mike enjoyed playing an active role at the girl's school, St Gabriel's. He coached the girls' basketball teams and helped run school fundraisers, like the Monday Night Football dinners where he cooked his delicious homemade spaghetti sauce. After Mike retired from teaching he became a regular volunteer and served 16 years at the St Anthony's Dining Room. There he met and developed wonderful friendships. St Gabriel's Parish felt like home. The women's Sodality benefited from his prowess as part of the meals-to-order fundraiser and in later years he served as an eucharistic minister at Masses. As an active member in his neighborhood association he will be remembered for his fun annual BBQ picnics at Pine Lake Park and his dedication to the Free Little Library project.

Mike is predeceased by his father, Charles Wesley, his mother, Elizabeth Katherine Hurley, his brother, young Charles, and his sister, Kimberly Ann Montague. A warm, loving, generous father, husband, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to so many, a great support and inspiration to Kathy, he will be missed greatly.
Due to COVID protocols the funeral service will be private with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. We have made a slideshow and placed it on the Duggan's website,
https://www.duggans-serra.com/obituaries/Michael-Edward-Montague?obId=19791934#/obituaryInfo
If you wish to make a donation in Mike's memory please consider St. Anthony's Foundation, Archbishop Riordan High School, or St. Gabriel Church.