James Joseph Montano's Obituary
James Joseph Montano
Colonel, United States Army (Retired)
March 4, 1946 – May 30, 2026
Colonel James Joseph Montano, USA (Ret.), a devoted family man, decorated combat veteran, and lifelong athlete, passed away on May 30, 2026, after a long battle with cancer, at his home in Millsboro, Delaware. He was 80 years old.
Born on March 4, 1946, in Monterey Park, California, James was a multi-sport athlete who competed in football, baseball, and rugby at Cal Poly University — early signs of the drive and discipline that would define his life. He was a man driven by an unrelenting pursuit of excellence in all he did.
James answered his country's call and embarked on a distinguished 26-year career as an officer in the United States Army, retiring at the rank of Colonel. He served with valor in Vietnam as Commander of Lima Company Rangers, earning the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device for Valor, and the Purple Heart. He later served his country again during Operation Desert Storm as the G3 of the XVIII Airborne Corps. Over the course of his career, he earned the Ranger Tab, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and the Jungle Warfare Badge — a testament to his extraordinary dedication and courage. James exuded the leadership qualities and ethics, cemented in the ranger creed, that all should aspire to.
After his military retirement, James continued to serve the nation in the defense technology sector, working to advance the technologies that support America’s warfighters today.
In all things, James was first and foremost a devote family man. His heart was fullest when surrounded by those he loved, and nothing mattered more to him than making memories with his family. He was known for his pride, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to those he held dear.
In his retirement, James could often be found out on the water aboard his beloved boat, the S.S. Ranger, casting a line with his sons and grandchildren, or on the golf course chasing the perfect round with his wife and golfing partner, Jessica. A lifelong student of American military history, he carried a deep reverence for those who served before him. Through it all, he remained an avid Dodgers fan — watching games right up until his final moments.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jessica; his sons, Trevor and Jason; his daughters-in-law, Regina Montano and Meghan Montano; his grandchildren, Charlotte, Mason, Winter, Harper, and Rylee; his ex-wife and dear friend, Debra Montano, and his sister, Lydia Medina.
Funeral services with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined.
Colonel Montano served his country with honor, raised his family with love, and lived every day with purpose. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
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