David Ellis Montoya

Retired Master Sergeant David Ellis Montoya
July 19, 1971 - April 12, 2017

Retired Master Sergeant David Ellis Montoya, 45, received his final deployment on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, surrounded by his family and closest friends. David was born in Farmington, New Mexico on July 19, 1971 to Joe "Guerro" Montoya and Flora DeHerrera Youell.
David attended Bloomfield High School and joined the NM Army National Guard. He was on active duty for many years on Active Guard Reserve (AGR). In 2010, David became one of the first members of the 226th MP Battalion. During his military career, he served 2 tours in Iraq. He earned a Combat Action Badge and was a Bronze Star recipient. David was also deployed in 2005 to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
He is survived by his children Nicholas, Kristen and Nathaniel "Bear" Montoya; his mother Flora; his sister Ruby Youell, his brother Lionel (wife Teri) Montoya and his girlfriend Summer Martinez.
David grew up spending much of his time in Blanco with his Uncle Gilbert and Aunt Pauline where he developed a love for hunting, horseback riding and being outdoors with his cousins Matthew and Candie. When he became a father, David lived for his children and was involved in their sports and activities as a coach in football and baseball. He even spent some time "cheerleading".
David was preceded in death by his eldest brother Chris and his father Guerro. He served all his assignments with distinction and carried out his duties with honor. Best described Specialist James Castillo, a soldier that served under him, "Sgt. Montoya was an amazing man, soldier, leader and father. He was the perfect model for new soldiers to aspire to be like. He always led by example and never gave up. He will truly be missed."
During his career, David held the highest honor of bringing home the soldiers of our community who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Now, it is David's turn to be honored.
Cremation will take place and the family invites you to the memorial service for David and it will be Tuesday, April 18th, at 10:30 am at the New Mexico Guard Armory in Farmington. A private burial service is reserved for immediate family only at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe, NM.
In lieu of flowers, David requested donations be made in his memory to Riley Men's Health Fund, PO Box 110, Farmington, NM 87499
David's care is entrusted to Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 East Ute St., Farmington, (505) 325-8688. Should friends desire to send condolences to the family, they may do so at Serenity and Company - Phoenix AZ