“Jim” was born in Sault Ste. Marie, MI to Louis and Violet Montero. He attended “Soo High” where he met and later married the love of his life, Shirley (Summerville) Montero. Jim’s love of music was his inspiration to form his own country/western band, “Jim Montero and his Hilltop Ramblers”. Jim was the lead singer and guitar player. The band packed many local venues in Michigan including Sophie’s Tavern in the mid to late 50’s. In 1962, Jim and Shirley packed up their 5 children (all under the age of 6) and ventured off to seek more opportunity out west in sunny California. There Jim got his first California job selling cars at Rhett-White Ford in Walnut Creek. Rhett-White Ford was the beginning of a very suc- cessful career in the auto industry which ended with 27 years as the General Sales Manager at Sun Valley Ford in Concord. He won many trips and awards dur- ing his career including his Ford Motor Co ring which he was very proud of. In retirement, Jim and Shirley were able to spend time doting on their large, ever growing family which was always their number one priority in life.

Jim is survived by his five children; Kim (Greg) Stevens, James (Karen) Montero, Jr, Judy (Brent) Frey, Mike (Julie) Montero and Brian (Karen) Montero. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren, 9 greatgrandchildren as well as brother Gerald (Ann) Montero and sister Nancy Splan. Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife Shirley, his beautiful granddaughter Nicole, and parents Louis and Violet Montero.

A funeral Liturgy will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 31 at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord, CA. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society

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