Mr. Luis R. "Big Lou" Montero

E. UTICA – Mr. Luis R. “Big Lou” Montero, age 91, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of his home, with his devoted wife, Carla, and beloved daughter, Debbie, by his side. Born in Utica on March 4, 1933, Luis was the son of Spanish Italian immigrants, the late German and Teresa (D’Agostino) Montero. He was educated in local schools and attended T.R. Proctor High School. At the age of 15, Lou ran away to join the military but was turned away because he was too young. Already a resourceful young man, Lou opted to join the circus until he was of age to enlist in the U.S. Navy. Once enlisted, he proudly served his country from 1951-1955 stationed on the U.S.S. Randolph in Norfolk, VA, and abroad during the Korean War. Lou met the former Barbara A. Felitto in 1952, and they were married on January 1, 1954. From their marriage came the blessing of their three children. He always enjoyed time spent with his family during the summer in Cape Cod and Old Forge, and winters were spent skiing with his children at local slopes. Barbara passed away on May 31, 2001. Lou was fortunate to find true love a second time in 2007 with Carla Giruzzi-Keena, and they wed on July 2, 2023. Lou and Carla were the best of partners in life and brought nothing but happiness to each other. Carla cherished Lou and their 18 years together until his last breath. The couple shared many trips together and enjoyed countless hours in the hot sunshine. Carla and Lou were so happy in each other’s company and Carla never left his side during his illness. Lou worked full-time as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for 30 years. He simultaneously collaborated part-time with Max Friedlander in real estate sales. His business pursuits eventually led him to start his own construction company. He then partnered full-time as a real estate broker with his friend, Tom Mazzotta and continued working until his retirement at the age of 87. Big Lou was a gentleman, who possessed a work ethic that was second to none. He had an affinity for horses which led him to become an avid rider. The times that he spent on horseback with his daughter were some of his fondest memories. Lou was an avid hunter, especially of deer and rabbits, and he even raised Beagles. He always had a minimum of two dogs in the home, waiting for the next chance to go on a hunt with him and any other family members who were able to go on the excursion. Lou had rhythm and was quite the dancer. His ear was keen on Latin-style music. He picked up golf later in life, and it was immediately evident that he was a natural. Over the years, Lou became quite the traveler as well. He loved cooking for others and was excellent in the kitchen; his cutlets, sauce, and pulled pork were unmatched. Big Lou was a colorful person, a good son, a true family man, and very humorous when the occasion arose. He could be quite the character, but underneath it all he was most known for his kindness and generosity. One of Lou’s most prized possessions was his pristine ‘63 Chevy and, to him, there was nothing better than driving around in the nice weather. Lou was a member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Lou is survived by his wife, Carla; daughter, Debbie Montero; and son, Jeffrey “Jeff” Montero. Always close to his heart was the memory of his infant son, Michael Angelo Montero, who preceded him. As the youngest of 7, Lou was preceded by his six siblings. Lou will forever be remembered by his nieces and nephews, Dawn and Randy Butler, and their children Sophia, Randolph, and Nicholas; Gina and Ron Cardillo Jr., and their children and their loves, Julia Cardillo and Duncan Spaulding, Ronald Cardillo III and Tiana Cota, and Jonmichael and Gabriel Cardillo; Michael Felitto III; Cynthia and Steve Bussey, and their children, Connor, and Alexandra Critelli; and Gary Montero. His memory will be cherished by his in-laws, Joanne “Tiny” Felitto, Frank R. Giruzzi III, and Patrick and Wendy Giruzzi, and their children, Patrick, and Parker Giruzzi. He is also survived by the extended Giruzzi and McEwen families; and Carmie Maciolek, a close family friend. Lou was additionally predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Francis R. and Elizabeth A. “Betty” (Caniato) Giruzzi; brother-in-law, Michael Felitto, Jr.; best friends, Tom Mazzotta, Vinny Pristera, and Dick Leone; and his loyal K-9 companions, Benny, and Neeko, whom he loved to take on walks. Lou’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. nurses, Christine, Crystal, Jan, Barbara, Alicia, Holly, Irene, Matthew, and Deacon Wally for all their help and compassion in upholding the dignity in the final part of Lou’s journey. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in Lou’s honor may be made to the Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. online at www.hospicecareinc.org/donate, or the equine rescue group, Hope Springs Eternal Horse Sanctuary online at www.hopespringseternalhorsesanctuary.org; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Luis’ Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:45 from the funeral home and at 10:00 am at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. Military Honors will be conferred by the U.S. Navy. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Luis R. "Big Lou" Montero

March 4, 1933 - January 10, 2025