Lucas J. Montoya

Lucas J. Montoya, age 93, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. He was born on January 3, 1932, in La Junta, Colorado to Anastacio and Agapita Montoya. The family moved to Albuquerque where Lucas graduated from Albuquerque High School. He later graduated from the University of Albuquerque and then obtained a master's degree in public administration from the University of New Mexico. Lucas joined the Navy after graduating from high school and married his wife of 73 years, Dora Telles Montoya. He was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii and Los Angeles, California. When they returned to Albuquerque, he joined the New Mexico Air National Guard serving at Kirtland Air Force Base. He was activated and served in Korea twice during the Korean Conflict. Lucas was employed by the Albuquerque Bus Company, which was later acquired by the City of Albuquerque where he retired after over 30 years of service working his way up through the ranks and serving as Director of the Transit Department, Solid Waste Department and Manager of the Fleet Management Division.

Lucas was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Ezekiel Montoya, Florentino Montoya, Margie Sandoval, Bernice Garcia and infant daughter, Monica Montoya. He is survived by his wife, Dora; brother, Roger Montoya; son, George Montoya and wife, Loretta; daughter, Nancy Lovato and husband, Jack; and granddaughter, Marissa Lovato. He is also survived by several in-laws, nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Lucas was under the care of Gentiva Home Hospice for 15 months with a great thank you to his nurse, Kathleen. He was also cared for by caregivers from La Vita Bella Home Healthcare with a special thank you to Mariah, Jasmin, Jessica, Veronica and Renee.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, beginning at 8:00 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 8:30 a.m., and Mass to begin at 9:00 a.m., at Sts. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church located at 5800 Ouray Road NW in Albuquerque. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. The reception will follow at the Moose Lodge, 2121 Edith Blvd NE.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.