About David Luis Montoya
David Luis Montoya, 68, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 15, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.
David was born on May 14, 1958, in Mesa, Arizona, to Margarito Montoya and Dolores Montoya. A lifelong resident of Mesa, he graduated from Mesa High School and later attended Mesa Community College, where he enjoyed taking classes on subjects that sparked his interest. He built a life grounded in family, friendship, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
David worked for many years at Procter & Gamble, where he formed lasting friendships and met the love of his life, Glenda Gudenkauf. The couple married on November 24, 2007, and shared a relationship filled with laughter, loyalty, and countless cherished memories. He was deeply devoted to Glenda and often surprised her with flowers and other gifts, always finding ways to show how much she meant to him. The two were inseparable.
Later in his career, David worked as an assembler for Northrop Grumman, contributing to projects involving satellites and missile systems. Outside of work, his greatest joy came from the people he loved and the experiences he shared with them. Above all, he treasured time with his family. He had two stepdaughters, Dawn James and Carri Lozevski, who he considered his own throughout the years. He was a proud grandfather to their children, Noah, Jonah, Hannah, Nathaniel, Zachary, and Jessica. He had a special bond with his niece, Maricela Fundalewicz, and he often referred to himself as her honorary dad. Her two children, Xavier and Severiana, affectionately called him their tata. His family also included his beloved dogs, Diego and, most recently, Panda. Among his nieces and nephews, David was the fun uncle, or “funcle”, thanks to his youthful spirit, playful nature, and words of advice. Everyone looked forward to birthday cards from Tio David which always included one crisp dollar bill.
David embraced life with enthusiasm and had a lifelong love of music and concerts. He saved every single ticket stub. Like his brothers, he grew up playing baseball, and his love of sports remained with him throughout his life. He enjoyed attending Spring Training games with his older brother, Phil, playing golf with his Uncle Manuel, and later spent many years playing recreational softball alongside his nieces and nephews. A loyal sports fan, David proudly cheered for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Commanders. He especially looked forward to Super Bowl Sunday with family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter, good food, and friendly competition.
David was quick to smile, quick to laugh, and loved by so many. His warmth, generosity, sense of humor, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Most of all, David loved helping others and never hesitated to lend a hand to a friend in need.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Margarito and Dolores Montoya, and his sisters, Alice Hernandez and Olivia Howard.
He is survived by his loving wife, Glenda Montoya; his children, Carri Lozevski (Johnathan Lozevski) and Dawn James (Jeffrey James); his honorary daughter, Maricela Fundalewicz; his grandchildren, Noah, Jonah, Hannah, Nathaniel, Zachary, Jessica, Xavier, and Severiana; his brothers and sisters, Phil Ortega, Manuel Montoya, Nacho Montoya, Angie Meza, Henry Montoya, and Betty Cons; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives were enriched by his love, friendship, and generous spirit. His legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will never be forgotten.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Visitation 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Bunker Family Funeral Home
33 N. Centennial Way
Mesa, AZ 85201
Friday, August 21, 2026
Mass - 9:30 a.m.
Christ the King Catholic Church
1551 E. Dana Avenue Mesa, AZ 85204
Burial - 11:00 a.m.
Mesa Cemetery
Section 575, Lot 3 on the corner of B Street and 5th Street
1212 N Center Street Mesa AZ 85201
Reception - 5:00 p.m.
Arizona Baseball Museum
2345 N. Horne Mesa, AZ 85203
Memorial donations may be made in David's honor to:
American Cancer Society
Hospice of the West
Flowers may be sent to:
Bunker Family Funeral Homes & Cremation
33 N. Centennial Way
Mesa, AZ 85201
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
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