Nazario "Dario" Montoya

Nazario "Dario" Montoya, Age 76, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Dario Montoya was born on January 25th, 1949, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Florencio and Leonides Montoya. He grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Dario served in the United States Army during the late 1960s and was deployed to Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. After his honorable service, he began a career as a truck driver, a profession that spanned over four decades. He retired as a Teamster, having spent the majority of his career driving for Consolidated Freightways and Yellow, working across Southern California, Flagstaff, Arizona, and eventually settling in Phoenix, Arizona.

In his late 30s and 40s, Dario became an avid runner, enjoying the scenic beauty of Northern Arizona. He shared a love of sports with his son, Seth, and cherished the moments they spent together. Dario also enjoyed smooth jazz and classic rock music and was a fan of Starbucks, always looking forward to his next cup of coffee.

In his older years, Dario took up riding a Harley Davidson and traveled across the country, crisscrossing the U.S. on his bike.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Montoya; his son, Seth Montoya; his daughter-in-law, Chrissy Montoya; his mother, Leonides Montoya; four granddaughters, Stephanie, Nicole, Samantha, and Kailyn; one grandson, Isaac Montoya; and his siblings, Louis Montoya, Steve Montoya, Rose Neal, Emma Martinez, Benny Torrez, and Johnny Torrez. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Dorena "Dori" Montoya.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 9th, 2025, at 10 A.M., at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home in Phoenix, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to send well wishes and share stories, especially if you're unable to attend.

After service reception 1130am to 3pm Friday May 9th please join the family for snacks and beverages at https://www.vfwpost3513.com/