In Loving Memory of

Dottie Montoya

1948 - 2026

Dottie Montoya, 77, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026, after a brave battle with lung cancer. She was born on August 10, 1948, in Olney, Illinois, to John and Luella Heckler.

In her younger years, Dottie was fearless and adventurous, traveling on her own and living in several different places as she discovered the world and herself. She worked for a lawyer and as a bookkeeper during that time, embracing life with independence and confidence. She was also a go-go dancer and always loved dancing—a joy that stayed with her throughout her life and brought smiles, laughter, and energy to every room she entered.

Dottie later set out on a journey from Texas to Utah for a new job and adventure, but fate had other plans. She stopped in Albuquerque to visit a friend, where she happened to break her collarbone—and in that unexpected moment, her life changed forever. During that time, she met the love of her life, Ted Montoya—depending on who you ask, either at Pepinos Pizza or at the bowling alley—and the two began a beautiful love story that would span more than 50 years. Dottie soon made Albuquerque her home, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family, and she later converted to Catholicism.

Dottie was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother to her cherished "granddogs," and a fiercely loyal friend. She was a successful apartment manager and a dedicated homemaker, always balancing hard work with warmth, generosity, and grace. She treasured time outdoors and had a lifelong love of camping and boating, a passion she happily passed on to her children. She was also an avid cruiser, finding joy in traveling the seas, discovering new places, and sharing unforgettable adventures with the people she loved. Creative and curious, Dottie was an avid reader and a talented stained-glass artist, pouring patience and beauty into every piece she created.

Dottie was a committed Lobo Women's Basketball fan. She proudly attended countless home games and traveled with friends to cheer on the team at out-of-state games, sharing laughter, excitement, and lifelong memories along the way.

Among her most treasured relationships was her lifelong friendship with Barb and Jerry Meloche, who were close friends with Ted even before he met Dottie. They quickly welcomed Dottie into their lives, and the friendship grew into a bond that lasted a lifetime. Together, they traveled, attended basketball games, spent summers at Navajo Lake, and raised their children side by side—sharing not just experiences, but a lifetime of love, support, and unforgettable memories.

Dottie also shared a deep and special bond with Sherry Bercaw, whom she met as an adult but always felt like a sister. Their friendship was rooted in love, trust, and mutual support, and it became one of the most meaningful relationships of Dottie's life.

As a mother, Dottie was endlessly supportive, devoted, and proud. She volunteered at her children's school, encouraged their interests, and was always their loudest cheerleader—and that never stopped. Well into their adulthood, she continued to celebrate their accomplishments, offer encouragement, and stand beside them with unwavering love and pride.

Those who knew Dottie will remember her as the most thoughtful person—someone who consistently went above and beyond for the people she loved. She made every gathering feel special and especially adored hosting family celebrations, creating magical Christmas memories year after year. Dottie loved traveling with her husband and family and made friends everywhere she went, touching lives near and far with her kindness and radiant spirit.

Dottie is survived by her beloved husband, Ted; her son, John Montoya and daughter-in-law Angela Montoya; her daughter, April Clearwater and son-in-law Michael Clearwater and her treasured, granddogs Jack, Ellie, and Rune. She is also survived by her brothers, John, Gary and Harvey Heckler and by her sisters, Brenda Hagstrom and Angela Brewer. She was preceded in death by her father, John Heckler; mother, Luella Heckler and by her brothers, Jimmy, Donnie and Tommy Heckler.

Dottie will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her loving heart, unwavering loyalty, joyful spirit, and the countless memories she created with those fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to UNM Cancer Center or your local cancer resource center.

The services will be held at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 811 Guaymas Place NE. Albuquerque, NM 87108 on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The Rosary will be recited at 10:30 a.m. MST. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. MST. Following the services there will be a Celebration of Life at El Patron, 10551 Montgomery Blvd NE. Albuquerque, NM 87111 at 1:00 p.m. MST. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP by Sunday, February 1, 2026, to ensure adequate food will be ordered. RSVP to: April Clearwater. Call or text: (505) 720-6864, Email: aleazenby@gmail.com or online https://form.jotform.com/260212446441144 . As well, the QR Code below can be scanned to RSVP.