Nathaniel Stephen Montross was born on May 25, 1981 in Santa Barbara and died suddenly at his home in Santa Barbara on Sept. 23, 2021.

Nathaniel had a generous heart; he would befriend the less fortunate, feed hungry friends, and would always protect those he loved. Nathaniel had a great sense of humor; he was always making those around him laugh, especially his nephew Byron.

Nathaniel was also fun loving; he enjoyed surfing, skateboarding, motorcycle riding, and playing with his niece and nephews.

Nathaniel is survived by his parents Stephen and Silvia Montross; his sister Selina; brothers Brandon (Karyn) and Adam (Samantha); grandmother (Margaret); nephews Anthony, Daniel, Byron; niece Julianna; and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.

There will be a rosary vigil at 6 p.m. Oct. 28 at Saint Raphael Catholic Church, 5444 Hollister Ave. Funeral mass will be at 11 a.m. Oct. 29, also at Saint Raphael Catholic Church, followed by interment at Goleta Cemetery, 44 S. San Antonio Road. Following interment there will be a reception at Saint Raphael’s Church Hall.

Broken Chain                                                        We little knew that day,
God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death, we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you.
You did not go alone.
For part of us went with you,
The day God called you home.

You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide.
And although we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.                                          Author: Ron Tranmer