Salvador Benton Montes, 88, passed away peacefully into the arms of the Lord on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at his home in Deming, NM with his wife by his side.
Salvador was born January 1, 1937 to Julian Montes and Genoveva Benton in Indé, Durango Mexico.
Salvador came to the Columbus-Deming, NM area in 1956 at the young age of 19 to work in agriculture through the Bracero Program. He eventually met Maria Elena Esquivias in Palomas, Chihuahua Mexico and they were married in March of 1964.
Salvador was a very hard working man and was employed with Southern Pacific Railroad and would later retire from the Playas Smelter. Chava, as he was affectionately known by, had many friends and coworkers throughout his lifetime which he considered his "amistades and camaradas." He had an excellent memory and enjoyed reminiscing about past stories.
Chava had a great love for his wife "Megua" of 61 years and his three children, Jesus "Moose", Salvador "Chava" Jr. and Veronica Montes which survive him. He was also an Abuelo to his nine adored grandchildren: Larissa, Bianca, Gerardo, Alexis, Roman, Nereya, Alina, Aristotelis and Brittany and nine beautiful great grandchildren that brought him immense joy. Also surviving him are brother in law Enrique Esquivias. Sister in laws Juanita Montes, Esther Esquivias and many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Geronimo, Joaquin, and Julian Montes. Sisters Isabel, Carmen, Genoveva and Maria.
Visitation will be Monday morning, November 10, 2025 from 10 to 12 at Baca's Funeral Chapel where the Holy Rosary will be recited at 12 by Judith Montes. Cremation will follow at Baca's Mimbres Crematory.
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