Miles D. “Monte” Montrose, Jr.

OKLAHOMA CITY - Retired United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Miles D. Montrose, Jr. (Monte) passed away of natural causes on Wednesday, February 10th. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Miles and Barbara Montrose of Idaho. Monte is survived by his wife of 66 years, Rita Montrose of Edmond, OK; son Marc and his wife Pat Montrose of Piedmont, OK; Daughter Kimberly Montrose of Edmond, OK; Granddaughter Kelsi Heim and her husband Brian of Piedmont, OK; Grandson Tyler Miles Montrose of Chickasha, OK; and Grandson Blake Thomas of Houston, TX. Monte was the oldest of seven children and graduated from Mountain Home High School, Mountain Home, IDs in 1948. Monte played football for what is now known as Boise State University. Subsequently Monte joined the United States Air Force as an Aviation Cadet of June 16, 1953. Monte’s included assignments at Altus AFB, Altus, OK; Clinton Sherman AFB, Burns Flat, OK; Rantoul AFB, Rantoul, IL; Mildenhall AFB, Mildenhall, England where he acted as a navigator for the KC97 and KC135. Monte held the position of Maintenance Officer in Viet Nam. After retiring from the USAF, Monte flew for Martin Aire and First National Bank of Altus, OK. Monte proudly served as president of the Altus Rotary Club in 1976. Many people enjoyed flying with Monte from Altus to Oklahoma City. In his later years in life Monte enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Grandpa acted as chief chauffer taking Grandson Blake to tennis lessons every day and never missed a tennis tournament. He was present to watch his Grandson Tyler and Granddaughter’s Kelsi sporting events. There were many, many family gatherings where Monte’s great-grandchildren, Bryleigh and Kamden entertained family whether it be Kamden throwing a ball across the yard or Bryleigh doing back flips in the house. Grandpa was the biggest cheerleader. A celebration of Monte’s life will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, 25th, at Vondel L. Smith and Son Mortuary, 13125 MacArthur Blvd., OKC, OK 73142, with Pastor Larry Karsies officiating. Memorial donations in memory of Monte can be made to Project HOPE at Francis Tuttle Technology Center, 12777 N. Rockwell Ave., OKC, OK 73142. Monte always believed that young people should be given a second chance.