Juanita Cano

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Juanita Petrolina Cano, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 72. Born on July 28, 1953, in Del Norte, Colorado, Juanita spent her life in the heart of Center, where her roots and her spirit flourished.

Juanita was known for her infectious sense of humor, often bringing laughter and joy to those around her. A strong supporter of her grandchildren, she loved attending their events and cheering them on with unwavering enthusiasm. Her deep Catholic faith guided her through life's challenges, instilling in her a positive attitude that radiated warmth and love.

Throughout her life, Juanita had a fondness for sweets and a particular love for cherry limeades, which often brought a smile to her face. She enjoyed the mental challenges of crossword puzzles and word searches and could easily lose track of time watching entertaining Facebook videos. Her stubbornness was matched only by her strength and resilience, qualities that endeared her to all who knew her.

Juanita is survived by her loving spouse, Luis Cano, Sr.; her devoted children, Samuel (Reyna Martinez) Maestas, Eva (Sergio Gutierrez)Montelongo, Erica (Miguel Velasquez) Cano, Luis Cano, Jr., Miriam (Nicolas Herrera) Cano. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Donovan, Cherie, Tyler, Jayse, Zayhir, Leylany, Gael, Carlos "Petey," Giayaneli, Xiomara, Xaniah, Alanys, Johanni, Kayleigh, Kenan, Adalis, Alexandra, Fernando, Uriel, and Yadira, along with one great-grandchild. Juanita's siblings, Frank (Gaydene) Montoya, John Paul (Gwen) Montoya, Jenny Montoya-Perez, Elizabeth (Felipe Garza) Estrada, Michelle Montoya, her sisters-in-law Barbara Montoya, Rita Elena Cano DeLeon, Delia Cano Ambriz, Blanca Cano Chavez and their respective families will carry her memory forward, as will her mother, Helen Montoya, numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins.

Juanita was preceded in death by her father Amarante Montoya, Grandparents Beatriz Chavez Pacheco, Ben Pacheco and Frank Gonzalez, her brothers Daniel Montoya and Jacob Montoya, her mother-in-law Eva Mancinas Cano, her sons-in-law; Ubaldo Montelongo, Fernando Rubio, Aunts Ruth Quintana, Vicky Briggs, Janice Culp and Uncles Danny Pacheco, Al Pacheco, Bobby Pacheco, she now joins her family in eternal rest.

In reflection of her life and spirit, a Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 9:30 AM on Friday, September 12, 2025, at St. Francis Jerome Catholic Church in Center. This will be followed by a Mass celebrating her life, beginning at 10:00 AM. A commital service will take place following the services in the Alamosa Cemetery Columbarium. Her family invites friends and loved ones to join them in honoring the remarkable woman Juanita was, as they come together to share memories, support one another, and celebrate her long-lasting impact on their lives. To express condolences, please visit www.mvmortuary.com

Juanita's laughter, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May she rest in peace.

Arrangements are in the compassionate care of Mountain Valley Mortuary.