James Harold Montanye |
James Harold Montanye of Fresno passed on to our Lord on September 4, 2009, after suffering for many years from muscular dystrophy. He was 59. He was born in Selma to Helen M. (Hart) and Charles C. Montanye on February 28, 1950, and grew up in Fowler where he graduated from high school. Jim graduated from Reedley College with an Associate Degree in 1970. He loved to sing and was a member of choirs at both the Fowler and Millbrook Presbyterian churches. He also sang with the Gold Note Barbershop Chorus. Jim was a member of marching bands at Fowler High School and Reedley College. Jim was active in fraternal organizations. In 1996, he became a member of Fresno Elks Lodge No. 439, and in 1992, was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor after earning the DeMolay Chevalier in 1971. He served as Commander of the Knights of Templar in Fresno from 1985-87, and High Twelve International in 1986, as well as rising to 32nd degree Mason with the Scottish Rite in 1978. Jim also was a volunteer for Easter Seals, Valley Public Television, Westminster Presbyterian Church and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles; and one brother, Monty. He is survived by his mother, Helen M. Montanye; and one sister-in-law, Eugenia M. Montanye, both of Fresno. Visitation will be held at Lisle Funeral Home on Sunday, September 13, 2009, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A Graveside Service will be held at Sanger Del Rey Cemetery, on Monday, September 14, 2009, at 9:00 a.m, followed with a Memorial Service at Westminster Presbyterian Church, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations donations can be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 5252, Fresno, Ca. 93704; or California- Hawaii Elks Major Project, Inc. 5450 E. Lamona Ave., Fresno, Ca. 93727-2224. LISLE FUNERAL HOME 1605 "L" Street Frsno, Ca.