Mr. Edwin "Eddie" "Miguel" Montanez

UTICA – Mr. Edwin “Eddie” Miguel” Montanez, age 61, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023 with his family by his side. At the time of his passing, he joined his beloved daughter Marissa, who preceded him in 2000. Born in Utica on August 5, 1962 to the late Ernesto Montanez, Sr. and the late Clare Melendez, Edwin attended T. R. Proctor High School where he attained his GED. He later earned his welder’s certificate through MVCC. Edwin shared over 13 years in a loving relationship with Elizabeth Hewitt. He was her protector, and she was steadfast in her devotion to him, especially during his battle with cancer. Edwin found employment as a stock clerk at the North Utica Walmart, but his real skills were reserved for the “side jobs” he often took on. A skilled mechanic, he would fix cars for pure enjoyment in his spare time. He also was a bit of a handyman – he could fix just about anything broken around the home. In 2004, he suffered a heart attack and told people he died and came back to life. He believed he had been blessed with a second chance. Though physically, he was unable to make a 100 percent recovery, he always managed to make the best of things. Sustained by his Christian faith, he used this time to study the Bible and grow closer to the Lord. In his free time, Edwin enjoyed fishing and even became known as a “master fisherman.” But most of all, he considered the time spent with his family as the most precious. He always looked forward to the camping season. Edwin was strong, tough, unafraid, strict, and a hustler. He also knew his faults and endeavored frequently to work on them. He always did the best he could. When it came to parenting, he wanted his children to be better and do better than he did. He truly encouraged them to be their best. Edwin is survived by his loving companion, Elizabeth; his children, Edwin “Eddie” Montanez, Jr., Elexis “Lex” Frank, Melissa Montanez, Joshua Montanez, Antonio Conklin, Miguel Montanez, and Angelica Montanez; his many grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; his brothers, Ernesto Montanez Jr., Jose Montanez, Sr. and his wife Wendy, and Eduardo and Lillian Montanez; many nieces, nephews, their families, and cousins; and his extended family, Maureen Montanez, and Warren Kemph. He was preceded by his uncles and aunt, Jose Montanez, Sr., Domingo Montanez, Nereida Montanez, and Fernando Montanez; and his friend, Billy Colon. Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 8, 2023 from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Edwin’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Edwin "Eddie" "Miguel" Montanez

August 5, 1962 - September 30, 2023