Alex Manuel Montoya's Obituary
A wake will be held this Friday, June 17 from 4-7pm at the Hamilton-Mylan Funeral Home, 302 W. 11th Street, Vancouver. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 18, at 1:30pm at Trinity Lutheran Church, 309 W 39th Street, Vancouver.
Alex Manuel Montoya, a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend, died on June 11, 2011 at age 38. Alex lost his life in a vehicle accident near Scappoose, Oregon doing what he loved most: spending time with his son and family, fishing, camping, boating, and soaking up the sun.
Alex was born in San Bernardino, CA on December 11, 1972. His surviving mother, Guadalupe Mata, currently lives in Vancouver, WA. Montoya spent his early childhood in Southern California and was thankful to his mother and father for moving the family to Vancouver. The move provided an escape from gang influences and gave them a chance for a better future. Alex is the ultimate success story. Upon graduating from Lower Columbia College where he was honored for academic achievement, he stated, "In the long run, if you want to break a bad cycle of poverty, you have to set higher standards and goals. In this country, education is the path." He went on to complete his bachelor's degree in Latin American Studies at Evergreen State College and a Master's of Science in management communication from the University of Portland.
First and foremost, Alex was a loving and devoted father. Alex Montoya loved being the best dad to his five children: Casandra Marie 16, Romeo Michael 12, Briana Celeste 15, Manuel Mata 5 months, and Yeshia Alex 5 months. Alex believed that a man should determine his success in life based on his children's success. Alex celebrated their achievements, took pride in their accomplishments, and offered support and motivation in times of trial. Alex was also deeply committed to his extended family. Alex is survived by his wife, Shanda, five children, mother, brothers, sister, and many friends and family.
At the time of his death, Alex worked at Clark College in Vancouver, WA as the Dean of Enrollment Services. Alex spent more than 15 years working in higher education. He was passionately committed to providing access to higher education and a safe and welcoming environment for all students. Alex has often been described by students and his colleagues as a mentor, who always made time to listen.
Alex had an impact statewide - serving on the Washington State Financial Aid Council, the Washington Association of Financial Aid Administrators and Washington State Latino Caucus. He also served terms as both president and vice president of the Washington State Multicultural Student Services Director's Council. As a community leader, he volunteered as head coach of a Longview Youth Soccer Association team.
Alex enjoyed camping, fishing, boating, golfing and spending time with his friends and family. He was always ready to lend a helping hand. Alex is remembered as a proud Marine, for the relationships he had with people, for his commitment to his family, and as a loyal Raiders fan.
Alex's wife, Shanda, and family would like you all to remember his love and presence in each our lives, his incredible humor, his thoughtful and sincere way, and his love for music, especially the oldies.
A scholarship fund in honor of Alex's commitment to and strong belief in education has been set up for the Montoya-Diehl children through the Clark College Foundation.
Online condolences can be made to the family at; www.columbiafh.com
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