Esther Gallardo Montecino

Esther Gallardo Montecino was born on March 27, 1921 in Arizona.

After her birth, her parents, Primitivo Gallardo and Paula Lopez, moved the family to California, where she attended local schools. She met her soulmate, Louis Montecino, and together began raising their three children. They were married 75 wonderful years before Louis passing in 2010.

Esther was a devoted Catholic woman, who went to church every opportunity she had. Along with her faith, Esther valued her family and knew the importance of togetherness. She made sure everyone was taken care of and fed. She would often bring food to a sick family member or make a quick phone call to ensure a relative's safety.

Esther had a great sense of humor and quick wit, which was loved by everyone around her. Esther enjoyed music, being adventurous and making tortillas with her husband. Esther was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great, great grandmother. She will be missed and loved.

Esther is survived by her sons, Michael Montecino, Ronald Montecino and wife Liz Gerber; grandchildren Ronald, Daniel, Ruben, Angela, Max, Miranda, David, Michele, Michael, Louise, Adrian and Andrew; many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren; and niece, Evelyn Gallardo. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Louis Montecino; daughter Yolanda Castañeda; granddaughter Annette Aguliar, and two Raz grandbabies.

A Mass of a Christian Burial was officiated by Father Raul A. Sanchez Flores Feb. 19 at St. John's Catholic Church in Wasco. A viewing was held Monday, Feb. 18, with the recitation of the Holy Rosary, at Peters Funeral Home in Wasco.