Juan Antonio Montoya

Juan Montoya “Choco” 

A Life Lived on His Own Terms 

From Española, NM – To Wherever He Roamed 

[May 7,1943] – [July 19, 2025] 

Born in Española, New Mexico, Juan Montoya- better known as “Choco” carried roots that ran deep in northern soil, but his presence stretched far beyond, touching lives from Las Vegas, Nevada to anywhere his boots—or his stubborn determination—took him. He proudly admitted he was far from perfect. Perfection wasn’t the point. In fact, he’d be the first to laugh off the idea. 

Choco was raw, real, and relentlessly himself—strong-willed, independent, and, by his own admission, “terco” beyond reason. “Atroz,” he’d say, shaking his head, amused, and never quite finished schooling you on how life really worked. 

Choco was not a man easily summed up. He was grit, soul, laughter, music, fuerza and quiet tenderness wrapped in bold defiance. 

But beneath that iron resolve was a deep, loyal heart—a provider, protector, and storyteller who carried the weight of generations with humor and pride. 

His love was never sugar-coated, but it was unwavering. If he loved you, you knew it—even if it came wrapped in tough lessons, half-joking jabs, or a quiet act of kindness when no one else was looking. 

His ability to always be there to help and support was unshakable and though he helped anyone who needed assistance, he never expected anything in return. 

Choco lived in anecdotes and lived for anecdotes: from work tales to backroad confessions, each story a snapshot of a man who had seen much, felt deeply, and walked through fire to stand tall. He was a husband, father, a son, a brother, a grandfather, a friend, and a man who embodied the complexity of survival with dignity,wit and resilience. 

Juan is survived by his wife Martha Montoya, his sons Juan Montoya Jr, Hector Ontiveros, Luis Ontiveros, Marcos Montoya & Flavio Montoya, his brother Ernest Montoya, his sisters Yolanda Montoya, Josie Montoya, Ramona Martinez, Rachel Lowe, extended family, and lifelong friends, each carrying a piece of his spirit—his resilience, his tenacity, and his unfiltered truth-telling. OBITUARY 

Choco wasn’t just a man. He was a force—flawed, fiery, unforgettable. And though he has left this world, his presence will echo through every story we retell, every lesson we pass on, and every stubborn moment we choose to live on our own terms. 

Choco leaves behind a trail of memories that stretch across states, generations. and a legacy of stories that will be retold with laughter around countless kitchen tables remembering his selfless commitment to help everyone he could. 

He may have done it his way—but he left our hearts fuller because of it. Rest easy, Querido Choco. Thank you for your teachings, your giving heart and your endless lessons.

A Rosary will be recited on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 9:30 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Espanola, NM, with Mass to follow at 10:30 am. Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Espanola, NM.

The family of Juan Montoya has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477