Willie N. Montoya, 87, of Los Alamos, New Mexico, died peacefully on Saturday, July 14, 2012, at Sombrillo Nursing Facility. Willie was born on August 6, 1924 in Cimarron, New Mexico; the son of Abel and Manuelita Montoya. 

On June 20, 1959, he married Adonelia (Nellie) Rael, they celebrated almost 50 years together until Nellie passed away on January 28, 2009. Willie absolutely adored his wife, Nellie; they took great pleasure in dancing at various functions and events all over New Mexico.  He was employed at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) from 1949 to 1987.

Willie was preceded in death by his wife Adonelia; his parents, Abel and Manuelita Montoya; in-laws, Nestor and Urgencia Rael; sisters, Olivia Bustos, Rufina and husband Aurelio Trujillo; brother, Thomas Montoya; brothers-in-law, Nestor Rael Jr., Lupe Rael, Jake Rael, and Charles Lehman.  He is survived by his sisters, Petra Montoya and Mary Shiver; sisters and brothers-in-law, Ercilia and Luciano Montoya, Juan and Mary Jane Rael, Elizabeth Rael, Helen Lehman, Cecilia Rael, Joanne Rael, and Theresa Rael; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and close friends. 

Willie resided his last two years at Sombrillo Nursing Home. He was lovingly cared for by his sister-in-law whom he considered a daughter, Helen Lehman and her children; Charlotte Lehman and Charles Lehman III, grandniece, Maya Lehman and grandnephew, Gabe. 

The family of Willie N. Montoya has entrusted the care of their beloved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477