RICHARD P. MONTOYA, of Santa Fe, passed away on Friday, September 16, 2005, due to complications with heart surgery. Richard was a self-made native New Mexican, born in Santa Fe on April 12, 1930, and graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1949. In 1948 he married Anna Rita Baca and was the proud father of three sons and three daughters. He was also the proud grandfather of 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He began his career in 1950 by joining the City of Santa Fe Police Department as a city police officer for over 17 years. In 1967, Santa Fe Governor David Cargo appointed him to the New Mexico State Motor Transportation Division as Director of the Ports of Entry and Enforcement Division. In 1971, he was appointed by Governor Bruce King to the New Mexico Public Service Commission as Chairman; reappointed by Governor Jerry Apodaca in 1976, and again reappointed by Governor King in 1980. During his term as Chairman, he was in charge of regulating electric and gas utilities. In 1977, Richard founded the United Southwest National Bank, the first minority-owned Bank in New Mexico. He served as Chairman of the Board for five years. Richard was a lifetime member of the Democratic Party. He was a successful self-made businessman and community leader. He was a humble, fair and humorous man. Montoya will be remembered as a man who deeply loved his family. He liked listening to Mariachi music, attending the festivities during Fiestas de Santa Fe, and was very proud of his Santa Fe heritage. Richard enjoyed participating in politics, and enjoyed conversation and helping people from all walks of life. He was a very good and loyal friend to many. We will miss "Peace Officer Dickie, his heart of gold and his devotion to his family. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel M. Montoya and Melinda Berardinelli Montoya, and was the youngest and last surviving of nine children: brothers, Joseph Montoya, Louis A. Montoya, Alfredo Montoya, Michael M. Montoya, Manuel A. Montoya, Carlos A. Montoya; and sisters, Isabelle Montoya and Cecelia M. Rosacker. Richard is survived by his children: Charlotte M. Capling, Richard A. Montoya and wife, Yvonne, B. John Montoya and wife, Christine, William Montoya and his former wife, Patricia, Cathy Montoya, and Melissa Harris and husband, Billy. Richard is also survived by his 11 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. Many people will always remember his kindness and generosity. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be sent to the Carmelite Monastery in memory of Richard P. Montoya. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 21, 2005 6:00 p.m., at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where a Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., also at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, September 22, 2005, 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Rosario Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Berardinelli Family Funeral Service, 1399 Luisa Street, Santa Fe, NM 87505, 984-8600.