Kenneth Michael Montoya, age 67, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2020, at his home in Denver, Colorado with his wife and daughter by his side.
Ken is survived by his wife of 47 years, Ann Montoya, and his daughter Kendra Montoya, his sisters Gail (Ed) Laurson and Josie (Jeff) Shigeno. He is preceded in death by his son Zachary Montoya who passed in 2016.
Ken was born on July 24, 1953, to parents Joe and Yolanda Montoya. He graduated from South High School in 1972 where he was elected as head boy in his senior year.
Ken grew up in the beautiful San Louis Valley, surrounded by numerous aunts, uncles, and countless cousins. His childhood was filled with love and the support that only a large family can provide.
Ken loved being a father; his children were everything to him. When Zach was born Ken took him before the doctor could even hand him to Ann, and immediately told him they were going to be best buds. He delivered Kendra himself (those were different times) in the room where she grew up on Ivy Street.
Ken spent most of his working life in the automotive industry as a Parts and Service Director, and ended his career selling high end cars, where his favorite line was "if you can't afford this car, I am sure I can find one more in your price range" usually resulting in a sale.
In 1976 Ken met Jehovah's Witnesses and, though not initially impressed, he decided to investigate the bible on his own so he could prove them wrong. While on a road trip he decided he would read the entire bible, but on getting to Exodus 6:3 he discovered God's name, Jehovah. He then turned to Ann and said, "God's name IS Jehovah, we need to go home and become Jehovah's Witnesses". Ken and Ann studied the bible together with dear friends, and in 1977 they were both baptized. Ken had the privilege of handling many responsibilities as a servant of Jehovah. He was appointed as an elder, a position that allowed him to act as a shepherd for people. Ken loved to meet new people, he took every opportunity to make sure they knew they were important, and they mattered. Ken prayed every day (up until 2 days before his death) that Jehovah would watch over his flock, and even though times were "dicey" that Jehovah would help him give assistance to anyone who needed it.
Ken loved life, was always active, playing basketball, fishing, skiing, hiking, biking, and running. He was a gifted photographer, recording Jehovah's marvelous physical creation as well as the human side of life. He was often accompanied by his faithful companion Blue, whom he loved without constraint.
Ken led a full life, thanks to most of you, he had countless friends who enriched his life. Ken was a good Dad, loving husband, wonderful friend, and most importantly loyal to Jehovah his God to the very end of his life. We will miss him, for a short time, then Jehovah will bring him back to us, along with his son and countless friends and loved ones.
Ken's memorial services will be held Saturday, November 14th at 5:00 pm. Due to the current pandemic, these services will be held via Zoom in order to socially distance and protect one another.
Zoom link to service Passcode: Montoya
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to JW.org or Maxfund in Ken's honor.
The family would love if you could share any pictures you might have of Ken - shorturl.at/inGW8 (please cut and paste the text into your web browser to open the Google Photos page).
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