Fabian Montanez

Fabian Montanez, born on January 20, 1949, in San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by the love of his family. He was a man of unwavering strength and determination, whose life journey reflected his deep commitment to his loved ones and his passions. 

Fabian’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and boundless love. As a United States Marine Lance Corporal, he served his country with honor from June 1968, to February 1970, continuing in the reserves until June 1974. Throughout his military career, he earned numerous distinctions, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, the Rifle Marksman Badge, the Vietnam Service Medal with Four Stars, and the Combat Action Ribbon, concluding his service with an honorable discharge. These achievements stood as a testament to his courage and patriotism.

Beyond his military service, Fabian was an entrepreneur and a jack of all trades who started a successful family business. His hands and mind were never still—whether restoring his cherished 1956 and 1957 Chevy Bel Airs, stripping wires, sewing, or fixing whatever was broken around him, he infused every task with care and skill. Watching his favorite foreign films, fishing and boating, and sharing countless cups of coffee brought him quiet joy, while his playful disputes over the correct way to cook or put worms on the hook reveal the spirited nature that endeared him to all who knew him.

Fabian's family was the heartbeat of his life. To his grandsons, he was a mentor on the water, a spirited competitor in catching fish. To all his grandchildren, a source of great breakfasts and wise, honest counsel. His grandchildren remember the playful banter he shared with his "Puerto Rican" grandchild and the steadfast love that guided every moment they spent with him by the pool or in laughter and conversation.

 Fabian’s wife, Anna Montanez, and his children—Fabian (Melissa), along with their children Fabian, Arianna, Gianna, Alexa, and Vincenzo, and daughter Ashley (Justin) and their children Aiden and Ashton—were the center of his world. He treasured the proud moments of seeing his daughter graduate from college, both of his children finding their soul mates, and the unmeasurable joy his grandchildren brought into his life.

 His sister Lucy (Michael) Strugalski, and loving nieces and nephews remain among his surviving family. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ana Marie Velasquez and brothers, Pete, Julio, and Tony Montanez. 

Fabian’s personality was unmistakably bold and true. He was argumentative and stubborn, but equally a loyal knight in shining armor for his family. He was always authentic—what you saw was what you got—and it was this genuine spirit that shaped the memories cherished by those whose lives he touched.He leaves behind the legacy of a man who would go to the ends of the earth for his family, who never let obstacles stand in his way, and whose honesty and determination inspired generations. Though he has departed, Fabian Montanez’s strength, love, and indomitable spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Services to honor Fabian will be held at Salerno's Rosedale Chapels in Roselle, Illinois.

 A visitation will take place on April 10, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service on April 11, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we hold close the memories of a beloved father, grandfather, husband, brother, and friend.

 Fabian Montanez’s life was a testament to love lived deeply and honestly—a legacy that will resonate forever.