Mary Emilia Montoya

Mary “Emilia” Montoya was born on August 21, 1938, in Trinadad Colorado to Epifania and Alfonso Ortiz. She was the third child out of six, with two older sisters Zelma and Lala, one younger sister Lillian, and two younger brothers Sonny and Louis. She attended Holy Trinity High School and that is where she met the love of her life “Roy Cheaters “, Roger Alex Montoya. On January 24, 1959, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, they united in holy matrimony and began their 61-year love affair. During this time, they were blessed with three children Kenneth (Laura), Diane (Tyrone), and Gerard (Della), five grandchildren Joaquin, Julian, James, Christina, and Michael, three great grandchildren Saul, Jeremiah, and Bella. She was a beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend. She treasured quality time with her family and friends.

Emilia was truly a pioneer in her profession as she was the first woman professional forklift driver. She was employed for 36 years with Union Camp/Weyerhaeuser. She often worked long days as a driver but did not mind. She became one of the guys in the warehouse and enjoyed the good times shared with her friend, Jose.
She was a fun-loving woman who enjoyed life to it is fullest. She loved to travel, dance, bowl, play cards and shop. If she were shopping, she could be found at one of her favorite stores, Macy’s and Kohl’s. Roger and Emilia were proud members of the Northglenn Moose Lodge and enjoyed spending time with the other members.

After a brief period of being ill, Emilia gained her wings on April 27, 2025. She was fearless in battling her illness however her path was to be reunited with her beloved Roger. She left behind her loving son Gerard and daughter-in-law Della to lead the Montoya family, her five grandchildren and three great grandchildren to continue the family name, a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends to remember her lovingly