Vanetta J. Montoya

Vanetta Josie Montoya, age 50, of Livingston, Montana, bid farewell to this wild world on December 15, 2023. Born on September 30, 1973, in Butte, Montana, she was a free-spirited soul who never quite settled down. Vanetta, a self-proclaimed gypsy, had a knack for roaming and a passion for nature's embrace.   Even from a young age, Vanetta loved dancing.   This simple act brought out her beautiful smile.   She was thoughtful and empathetic and put in extra effort to make others smile too.   

Throughout her journey, Vanetta embraced various jobs, but it was at Murdoch's in Livingston where she finally found her groove. She worked her magic there, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed her path.

When it came to her loved ones, Vanetta could be hard on those that she loved as she struggled to find inner peace. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly through her cherished children, Esperanza Montoya (daughter of Daniel Martz and Vanetta Montoya) of Butte, MT, and Shelby Clark of Billings, MT.   She leaves behind unforgettable childhood memories through her surviving siblings: Robert Montoya of Durango, CO, Stacie Brown of Boise, ID, Eleana Liska of Helena, MT, Rene Dallas of Blaine, WA, and Amy Mam of Ferndale, WA.   Vanetta could always count on her godparents Uncle John and Aunt Sharlene Montoya of Butte as well as her cousins Deanna Nelson and young John Montoya of Butte, Aunt Linda and Gary Keltz of Atascadero, CA, and her cousin Valerie Huls (Kevin & Keaton) of Goodyear, AZ who was also one of her best friends through high school.   She had numerous Aunts, Uncles, and cousins who are mourning her untimely loss.  Vanetta was the beloved daughter of Janel Montoya of Butte, MT, and Joel Montoya of Ferndale, WA.

She is preceded in death by her Grandma and Grandpa Adam (Lenore & Albert Adam of Butte) as well as her Grandma and Grandpa Montoya (Juan & Victoria Montoya of Butte).  

To honor her memory, a memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 21st, at 11 am at the Gold Hill Evangelical Lutheran Church, nestled at 934 Placer St., Butte, MT 59701. Let us gather, not with tears but with laughter, as we celebrate Vanetta's adventurous life.

As we bid adieu to our restless soul, let us remember Vanetta Montoya with joyful hearts and a twinkle in our eyes. May her spirit continue to dance among the stars, forever guiding us towards adventure and embracing the beauty of life.

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