John Montez

He was the beloved son of Santos Montez and Evelyn Guadagnano.

John faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force for four years, where he attained the rank of sergeant. He later devoted 35 years of his life to Walmart Corporation, where he served in several roles, including Dairy Manager, and retired in 2024 after serving as Meat Department Manager.

John was a man of great joy, known for his loud and contagious laugh and for the fullness with which he embraced life. He cherished time spent with his wife, Sara, and found happiness in traveling, especially to sunny beaches. He loved his grandchildren dearly, enjoyed tending to his garden, and took pride in the beauty of his backyard, where he could admire the fruits of his labor, his flowers, and his plants. He also enjoyed running, music, the casino, Crown Royal, and the faithful companionship of his dog, Max.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Sara Montez; his stepsons, Franklin Espana and Wilmer Espana; his stepdaughter, Dayana Martinez; his brother, Steve Montez; many grandchildren; extended family members; and dear friends who became like family. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory and spirit will remain forever in our hearts.

Revelation 21:4

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Visitation will be held at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119, on June 2, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at 7:00 pm.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will take place at Leavenworth National Cemetery, 150 Muncie Rd, Leavenworth, KS 66048, US, on June 3, 2026, at 12:30 pm.

Pallbearers will be Frank Espana, Wilmer Espana, Mario Martinez, James Ray, Jorge Galeano, and Emerson Maldonado.