Ricardo Montoya, a man of quiet strength and profound wisdom, passed away on April 7, 2026, in Independence, Missouri. Born on May 28, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri, Ricardo lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and an enduring love for his family and the simple pleasures of life.

Ricardo’s early years were shaped by his brave service in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where he earned several decorations for his valor. It was during his time in the Marines that he earned his GED while aboard a ship, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to personal growth and education even in challenging circumstances. Following his military service, Ricardo worked as a welder for approximately twenty years, a testament to his hard-working and practical nature. Throughout his life, Ricardo was a man who valued simplicity and independence, rarely seeking luxuries but instead finding fulfillment in foundational truths and meaningful connections.

His personality was defined by his deep affection for his family and his gift for teaching. He had the quirky and endearing habit of speaking in parables. His joy in exploration was evident in his love of racquetball, a sport he played for most of his life, as well as his passion for nature walks, where he would eagerly explore trails and woods at every opportunity. Ricardo’s intellectual curiosity extended to his fascination with history, especially ancient civilizations, and metaphysical traditions like feng shui. Ricardo also cherished running, participating in several notable races, including the Hospital Hill Run in Kansas City and the Marine Corps Run in Washington, D.C., acts that reflect both his physical endurance and his spirited nature. Perhaps one of Ricardo’s proudest accomplishments was his work as an author, having published multiple books on spirituality. His writing was an extension of his lifelong quest to share wisdom, inspire understanding, and deepen the spiritual lives of others.

Ricardo's passing is preceded by his father, Joseph "Joe" Montoya; his stepfather, Juan Perez; his sister, Linda Montoya; and his niece, Angie Rapper. His legacy of love lives on through his mother, Ruth Perez; his children, Rickk Montoya (Autumn) and Andrea Montoya; his grandchildren, Kennedy Montoya, Caitlyn Robleado, Aubrey Lacy, and Halle Montoya; his great grandchildren, Tony Lorenzo "Enzo" Robleado and Jaquelyn Isabel Ortiz; his previous wife, Ruth Montoya; and his siblings, Joseph Montoya, Tony Montoya, and Yolanda Adams.

Services to honor Ricardo Montoya will be held on April 15, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. with a graveside service at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kansas.