James W. Montana

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James W. Montana (88) of Milldale on December 15, 2023. “Jim” was born on May 4th, 1935, in Waterbury, CT to James A. and Genevieve (McNulty) Montana. He met the love of his life, Maria (Longo), when he threw a snowball at her as she was walking by, which resulted in a union which stood strong for 70 years. Together they built a family beginning with two children, Larina Steinke and James C. Montana, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren: Matthew Steinke and Samantha and their children Otto and Winslow; Jamie (Montana) Hall and Dominic and their children Julia and Emily; Justin Montana and James, Luke Steinke, and Lacie Montana. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Janie and husband Severino Bovino, sister-in-law Geraldine Longo and husband Bill Leete as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents: James A. and Genevieve (McNulty) Montana; his father-in-law and mother-in-law Orazio and Vitangela Longo; his sister and brother-in-law, Alice and John Zajac; his brother-in-law Sam Longo, his son-in-law Mark Steinke and his nephews: Richard Zajac, Michael Zajac and John Patrick Zajac.

Jim joined the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean War from 1952-1956. He was a great athlete and traveled the world playing baseball for the navy. He was a hardworking man. He worked at Pratt & Whitney, International Silver & retired from Times Fiber as a Supervisor. He and his wife also worked alongside his father-in-law Orazio Longo and wife Vitangela, at the family-run restaurant, The Manor Inn.

Family was the most important thing to him, and he especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as “Poppie”. Jim and Maria were parishioners of St. Aloysius Church in Plantsville. Jim was an avid sports fan, especially of the Boston Red Sox and UCONN Women’s Basketball. He enjoyed playing golf and did so well into his eighties. He also played cards and cribbage with his family and friends.

Jim touched many lives and will be missed for his contagious laugh, his bright eyes, and his great smile. His beloved wife Maria will miss his constant company, especially watching Hallmark movies together.

Private services for his family will be held at DellaVecchia Funeral Home in Southington, followed by burial with military honors at St. Thomas Cemetery.