Miriam Montanez

She was born Jan. 3, 1960 in Dunkirk, the daughter of Lydia (Torres) DeJesus of Forestville and the late Julio DeJesus.

A lifelong resident of the area, Miriam was a graduate of Dunkirk High School, class of 1978 and a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. In her free time, Miriam volunteered her time to several local charities. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren. She had her own special bond with each one of them.

Besides her mother, she is survived by her loving companion of 42 years, Luis Colon; three daughters, Marissa (Robert) West, Liana Montanez, and Frances Colon; one sister, Anna (Juan) Esquilin; three brothers, Carlos (Maryann) DeJesus, Julio Jr. (Ana) DeJesus, and Jose A. (Daisy) DeJesus; grandchildren, Hector West, Javier West, Analiah Ramirez-Montanez, Christien Ramirez-Montanez, Monica Delanoy, Tiffany Mylar, Amaya Quiles, and Ismael Martinez; several great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her son, Wilfredo “Willy” Montanez Jr.; and brother, Jose DeJesus.

Calling hours will be held Friday, Oct. 20, from 3-7 p.m. at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

The following is a special note to the family’s dearest Miriam:

Thank you for the beautiful years of memories we shared here on earth. Everybody misses you.

Everyone feels the pain. You are forever in our hearts. May you finally find peace with your son. Until we meet again.

The DeJesus/Montanez Family