Apolonio Salazar Montoya

Apolonio Salazar Montoya, 88 years of age, passed away February 22, 2026 in Ft. Stockton, Texas surrounded by the land and the people he loved.

Apolonio Salazar Montoya was born in Mulato, Ojinaga, Chihuahua on March 1, 1937. He started cowboying at a very young age in a ranch called La Sauceda, which is the rugged wilderness area in the heart of Big Bend National Park - tending to cattle, broncs, sheep and goats. He married Remedios Luna had four children. Eventually became the forehand of the Youngblood Ranch in Midland, Texas where he passed his cowboying traits to his children. He settled in Fort Stockton, where he embraced a peaceful life surrounded by the laughter, footsteps, and endless love of his children, 12 grandchildren and 24 great‑grandchildren.

He is survived by his children; Ubelia Montoya-Huerta, Cruz Montoya, Hermina Montoya and Sergio Montoya. Two Sisters; Manuela Valenzuela and Ramona Alvarado.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Remedios Luna Montoya, brothers; Gonzalo Montoya, Francisco Montoya, Dolores Montoya. His sister Carolina Ortiz.

Visitation is set for Wednesday February 25, 2026, from 1pm-9pm with a rosary at 7pm at Martinez Funeral Home chapel.

Mass will be celebrated at10am Thursday February 26, 2026, at St Joseph’s Catholic Church with Father Frank Chavez officiating.

Burial will follow at Ector County Cemetery ‘Rosehill section’.

Pallbearers: Vicente Tucker, Carlos Tucker, Deric Russell, Ysidro Barela, Izaiha Antonio Rodriguez, and Kash Tucker.

The family of Apolonio Montoya wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you who took the time to be with us and support us during this difficult moment. Your presence, your kindness, and your prayers have brought comfort to our hearts.