Anthony Montanez, 56, of Rocky Ford, CO, passed away Thursday, August 6th, at his residence.

Anthony was born in Rocky Ford, CO on June 8, 1964, a son of the late Frances (Montanez) Cordova.

He graduated from Rocky Ford High School in 1982, while in high school he played varsity basketball for four years and ran cross country.

He was to married Jennifer Aragon and they later divorced.

He attended the St. Peters Catholic Church in Rocky Ford, CO, where he volunteered for funeral dinners and many other events.

Anthony played recreational basketball and softball. Since he was the youngest in the family he was considered a momma's boy. After his mother passed way, the siblings did their best to take care of him as their mom would have. He loved all of his siblings the same. He was especially close with his brother Charlie, who lost his battle with cancer 3 years ago. Since they were the youngest of the family they would tease each other about who was momma's baby.

He loved his kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews, but was especially close with his grandson Maceo and would volunteer at his school whenever he could. Anthony had a good sense of humor and was always smiling. He had a big heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was also well known for his green chile breakfast burritos. He loved to listen to the oldies and the new spanish music. Anthony will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

He is survived by: Daughter Celia (Jose Vasquez) Montanez - Vasquez, of La Junta, CO; Son Anthony Montanez, Jr., of Denver, CO; Daughter Breanna Montanez, of Rocky Ford, CO; Sister Louise Alfonso, of Rocky Ford, CO; Brother Jimmy (Faye) Cordova, of La Junta, CO; Brother Joe (Cindy) Cordova, of Rocky Ford, CO; Brother Benjie (Alice) Lucero, of Rocky Ford, CO; Brother Daniel (Lorraine) Sanchez, of Denver, CO; Brother Arnie (Geraldine) Chavez, of Rocky Ford, CO; Brother Bobby (Adeline Zamora) Chavez, of Manzanola, CO; Sister - in - Law Diana Chavez of Rocky Ford, CO; Special Friend Mary Jo Aragon of Rocky Ford, CO.

He is also survived by 9 Grandchildren: RaeAnna, Alicia, Amaya & Darian Vasquez, Aaliyah, Izabel, Noah & Gloria Montanez, Maceo Maldonado; Godson: Arnie Chavez, Jr.; Goddaughter: Daylene Gonzales; Numerous Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mom, brother: Charlie Chavez and brother-in-law: Joe Alfonso.

A Viewing will be held 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 13th at Ford - Ustick Funeral Home in Rocky Ford, CO. A Rosary Service will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 13th at Ford - Ustick Funeral Home in Rocky Ford, CO. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 18th at Hillcrest Cemetery in Rocky Ford, CO. Inurnment will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, Rocky Ford, CO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to His daughters Celia and Breanna and can be sent to the funeral home 305 N. 8th; Rocky Ford, CO 81067.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ford - Ustick Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.fordustick.com.