David Uvaldo Montaño was born January 17, 1949. He died peacefully at his home in Albuquerque on Sunday, September 6, 2026, surrounded by his dear ones.

David is survived by his beloved family, his wife of 29 years Victoria Vogel Montaño, his children Melissa (Carl) McQuerry and David Daniel (Joanna) Montaño, grandchildren Nicholas Montaño, Aloura (Tony Maldonado) Montaño, Skyler (Kevin Salgueiro) Montaño, Daniel Montaño, Ava McQuerry; great grandchildren Adonis Salgueiro and Ezekiel Salgueiro, sister Linda Hines, brothers Tommy (Margaret) Montaño and Carlos Montaño, the mother of his children Dolores Perea Smith, many sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews and cousins, neighbors and faithful friends, and his devoted caregiver Callie Morgan. He cherished them all.

He was preceded in death by his parents Tomas Montaño and Luggie Sanchez Montaño and sisters Irene Montgomery, Frances Zamora, Marilyn Montaño, nephew James Zamora, in-laws Richard and Marilyn Vogel, Jerry and Jan McKee, Peter Morris, Mike Adams, Steven Sunday, and Jim Gregory.

David graduated from Rio Grande High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1967. The following year he was inducted into the United States Army and served honorably. In many ways, David’s life was defined by his service in the Vietnam War. For this reason, David was committed to the care of fellow veterans to the end.

After returning from Vietnam, David began his career as a Union plumber and pipefitter, first as an apprentice then as a journeyman, foreman, contractor, mechanical inspector for the city of Albuquerque, member and then board member of the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials. Finally, in his role as coordinator of the JATC (Joint Apprenticeship Training Center) for local Union 412, David continued to mentor and encourage others with his passion for the dignity of work and respect for workers.

David loved God and was a faithful disciple of Jesus. He loved the study of the Sacred Scriptures. A life-long Catholic, David participated in parish life and various ministries. He was faith filled, prayerful and very grateful for God’s many blessings in his life. Even in his last days he inspired those around him, sharing his faith in simple but profound ways.

David’s children, grandchildren, and wife are very grateful to all who loved and helped care for him, and to the dear family and friends who accompanied them in walking David home to God.

Proud of his heritage from both the villages of Atrisco and Canjilon, David was a true New Mexican. He leaves a lasting impression: his compassion, generosity, love of learning, sharp wit, keen intellect, love of country and every veteran. While the family is sad that David is no longer physically with us, we will remember that twinkle in his eye as we carry on his legacy: “Peace is the most important thing. Follow the path of love.”

Services for Mr. Montano will be provided once family has made their final arrangements and decisions.