Sean Montano

Sean Paul Montaño, aged 50 and lifelong resident of Albuquerque, passed peacefully in his sleep on the night of January 2, 2022. He was a devoted father, son, brother, mentor and friend to many.

He leaves behind his children and Brandon (16) and Chloe (14), his mother Gloria Montoya (Rosa Estrada), sister Leanna Montano (Leonard Aguilar), brother Javier Montano (Molly), Stefanie Guitierrez, mother of his children and his brothers that he would meet later in life Dustin Turcich (Valerie) and Gary Turcich (Jacquelyn). He is preceded in death by his father Paul Arthur Montano, his stepfather Jay Don Burkett, his grandparents Consuelo (nee Romero) Montano, Paul Leopoldo Montano, Samuel Montoya and Mary (nee Cornejo) Montoya.

Sean was born on October 19, 1971 at Presbyterian hospital in Albuquerque.  He was the Lion King, the first born son who stole his mothers heart at birth.  He grew up in the North Valley and would attend Highland High School and later, studied Computer Science at the University of Phoenix.

He worked at Monroes Restaurant for 35 years.  He would win Manager of the Year from the New Mexico Restaurant Association twice but was so much more than a manager to the many who worked for him through the years.  He gave many their first jobs, and would remain their mentor and friend.  Sean was the guy you could count on to jump in when things got busy.  He was  the ‘go to’ for advice and delivered it with his unique  communicative style and humor and  made everyone feel included – he was tough but fair.  He had a sharp wit – a razor tongue – and was often the smartest guy in the room, Most people knew Sean for his dependability, tenacity and ambition. His loyalty was unmatched.

Sean loved darts, pool, pickleball, golf, and poker and was a lifelong fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Phillies.  He had a curiosity for life and had recently started a second career in real estate.  He mentored youth at New Day through their a program called Gourmet Grub.

He was our rock, our steady, the guy you wanted in your corner. Sean could talk you into doing who-knows-what even before you knew you were doing it. We will miss his playful smirk, his hearty laugh and are better because we had him for the 50 years that we did.

Sean’s children, Brandon and Chloe, were his world – his greatest pride and joy.  His bond with them  was unbreakable and eternal.

Due to Covid, a celebration of life is being postponed until springtime.  There will be a viewing at Daniels Funeral Home 9420 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114 from 3-5pm on Friday, January 14, 2022.  Please be prepared to be socially distanced and wear a mask. There will not be a receiving line or reception at this viewing.