Obituary of Montie Bryan

Montford R. Bryan Jr. May 21,1942 – June 24, 2022 Montie “Butch” quietly passed away at home in Hollister surrounded by close family members. He had fought a long battle with cancer. Montie is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kathleen, son Jeffrey, daughter-in-law Debbie, daughter Alicia, granddaughter Claire and grandson Owen. He also leaves behind three sisters; Joannie Mehring of Tracey, Patty Harrington (Dale) of Walnut Creek and Ginger Riehl (Ron) of Vacaville. He was born in Lodi, California to Montford Bryan who grew up in Paicines and Barbara (Bobbie) Bryan. He graduated Vacaville High School in 1960 and completed a degree in Animal Husbandry at Cal Poly in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968. In 1968, he was hired as a property appraiser at the San Benito County Assessor’s Office and later worked as a bank appraiser. He became the manager of Bolado Park from 1980 to 1983 where one of his duties was running the County Fair. He moved on to become the Northern California Regional Appraisal Manager for Coast Federal Bank and Home Savings from 1983 to 1990. He ended his career by returning to the San Benito County Assessor’s Office, retiring in 2007. He was always a part time rancher. Montie had a passion for ranching, hunting, fishing, traveling the world and playing on the beach in Carmel where his family owns a home. He spent time growing roses to give away as gifts. What he loved the most, though, was barbequing at his ranch with family and friends. His grandchildren, who are growing up on the ranch, were the highlight of his life. He loved teaching them all about ranching. He filled our lives with joy and sincere friendship. He had an easy smile and a compassionate heart. He was always ready and willing to help others with any task that needed doing. His joyous spirit will be missed so very much. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Community Foundation for San Benito County; the Cancer Research Institute or the charity of your choice. A Memorial Service will be held at Grunnagle-Ament-Nelson Funeral Home on Thursday, July 7th, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at Leal Vineyards, 300 Maranatha Drive, Hollister.