Ron Montoya leaves an indelible mark on Colorado

R.I.P.| Ron Montoya, February 20, 1947 – August 2, 2026. (Photos/Shannon García)

HISTORIC BUSINESS LEADER PASSES AWAY

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Colorado bids farewell to Ronald “Ron” E. Montoya, one of the most influential figures in the state’s Hispanic business and community leadership. Born and raised in Denver’s historic southwest neighborhood, Montoya dedicated his life to paving the way for the Latino community, demonstrating that business vision and a dedication to service can profoundly transform a region.

His entrepreneurial spirit led him to found and preside over PlastiComm Industries, a Denver-based telecommunications products manufacturing and supply company. Under his leadership, the firm reached the #19 spot on Inc. Magazine’s prestigious national Inner City 100 list, distinguishing itself among the fastest-growing private companies in urban areas across the United States.

Ron Montoya leaves an indelible mark on Colorado Ron Montoya deja una huella imborrable en Colorado

FAMILY TIME| Ron Montoya alongside his wife Naomi (R.I.P.)

Additionally, Montoya was a founder of the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and co-founder of Solera National Bank in 2007, a financial institution designed to close the credit access gap for Hispanic families and business owners. His career and service earned him induction into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, while the Hispanic Chamber established the Ronald E. Montoya Lifetime Achievement Award in his honor.

Public servant, committed Catholic

In the public sector, he served in the late 1980s under Governor Roy Romer’s administration and directed the Colorado Minority Business Office. Through these roles, he proudly promoted commercial ties with Chihuahua, Mexico, his parents’ homeland. Furthermore, his deep faith made him a devoted parishioner of San Cayetano Church and a cornerstone in the creation of Centro San Juan Diego.

On a personal level, he endured the painful loss of one of his two sons and the passing of his beloved wife, Naomi, in 2024. His legacy lives on through his son Ron Jr., his daughter-in-law Suzy, his loved ones, and the entire community he inspired through his integrity.

PUBLIC SERVANT| Montoya alongside Roy Romer, Governor of Colorado.

Community tributes

“Please rest in peace, my friend. You and Naomi are together again. May God’s blessings be with Ron Jr., Suzy Montoya, and the entire family.”

Jerry Natividad, businessman and commercial ally.

“All of us at the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are deeply saddened by the passing of Ron Montoya. Ron was more than an extraordinary entrepreneur and respected business leader—he was a mentor to so many and a dear friend to many of us, dedicating his life to creating opportunities for others.

His leadership helped shape not only the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, but the broader Hispanic business community across Colorado and the nation. He believed that true success was measured not only by the businesses we build, but by the lives we lift and the doors we open for the next generation.

On behalf of the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Montoya family. We are grateful for Ron’s remarkable legacy of leadership, generosity, and service. His impact will continue to inspire our business community for generations to come.”

Mike Ferrufino, CEO of the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

“A mentor, visionary, and one of the driving forces behind the Mexican Cultural Center’s success. Ron served as Chair of our Board for more than 20 years, leading with generosity, wisdom, charisma, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. His leadership helped shape the organization into what it is today. He will be remembered fondly forever.”

Rachel Garcia, Executive Director, Mexican Cultural Center

“A parishioner of San Cayetano, the neighborhood where he was born and raised—collaborative, humane, and always supportive.”

Linda Sosa, Community Leader.