Jose E. Montanez, Sr.

Mr. Jose E. Montanez, Sr., age 78, a former resident of Rome for more than 50 years, passed away on Friday, April 7, 2006 in the comfort of his family’s home in Utica where they had been caring for him. Born in Puerto Rico on February 28, 1928, Jose was the son of the late Pablo and Catalina (Melendez) Montanez. He was raised and educated in Puerto Rico. When he was 20 years old, he relocated to the U.S. and settled in Rome NY where he lived for more than 50 years. He was married to the former Ruth L. Delano. Ever since her passing on November 7, 1984, he cherished her memory. When he first arrived in central NY, Mr. Montanez was employed for a period of time in railroad construction in Utica; he then accepted a position with the DPW in Rome. After these early job opportunities, he spent the major part of his career in road construction work. As a father, Jose provided guidance, demonstrating through the example of his own life the value of sacrifice. He was a kind-hearted man who would “give the shirt off his back” to help his loved ones, his friends, or anyone in need. Mr. Montanez is survived by his loving family: his son, Jose E. Montanez, Jr. and Carrie Mokry of Utica; and his stepchildren, Debra Delano and Jim Been, Laurie and David Saunders, all of Utica, Paul Delano and his late wife, Denise, Tom Delano of AZ, and Stevie and Shirley Delano of Rome. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Tisha Mokry, Jose E. Montanez III, Alyssa Montanez, Nicole Young, and Brianna Young. In addition, Jose leaves a sister, Nereida Montanez of Puerto Rico; two brothers, Ernesto Montanez, Sr. of Utica and Clara Malendez, and Fernando Montanez of Puerto Rico; and his nephews, Ernest Montanez, Jr., Jose E. Montanez, Edwin Montanez, and Eduardo Montanez. He also leaves a faithful canine companion, Sparky. The family offers special thanks to the personnel of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. for the care and assistance they provided to Jose and his family. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 9, 2006 from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mr. Montanez’s funeral will be conducted at the funeral home on Sunday afternoon at 2:00 immediately following calling hours. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Jose E. Montanez, Sr.

February 28, 1928 - April 7, 2006