Anacleto Hump-koo-dra Montelongo, 67, of Cherokee passed away Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2015 at the Cherokee Indian Hospital with his loving family by his side.
He was born May 13, 1948 in Grand Rapids, Mich. to the late Anacleto Montelongo and Nora Thompson Montelongo of the Yellowhill community.
A loving father, grandfather, and friend, he was a member of the Native American Church. Cleto was a member of the Long Hair Clan. He was head of security on the longest walk in 1978 which began a lifelong dedication to Native American rights and activism. He was instrumental in passing legislation in the state of Georgia to protect native burial sites. He co-founded Echoes of the People, Inc. and the American Indian Center in Atlanta. He retraced the Trail of Tears Walk in 1992. He was a licensed drug and alcholism counselor who genuinely loved people. He enjoyed native crafts which included bead and leather work. If you were fortunate enough to have met him, I know you surely will never forget him.
Cleto is survived by his ex-wife, Leslie W. Montelongo; his children, Cleto Montelongo of Cherokee, Angie Montelongo of Cherokee, Wetha Montelongo of Stevens Point, Wisc., Mato Montelongo of Baraboo, Wisc., Yona Montelongo of Baraboo, Wisc., Mayta Montelongo of Stevens Point, Wisc., Elaina Montelongo of Newnan, Ga.; step-son, Dorian Grant of Marietta, Ga.; brothers, Raymond Montelongo, Dave Montelongo, Danny Montelongo, Mark Espinosa, and John Espinosa; sisters, Sarah Montelongo, Ester Montelongo, Linda Montelongo, and Lisa Montelongo; 15 grandchildren, one great grandchild; as well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to the parents, Cleto was preceded in death by brother, Manuel Bo Montelongo; sister, Elvia Montelongo; adopted brothers, Rev. Anthony Senith, and Ken Rhyne.
Private graveside services were held Tuesday, Oct. 27 at the Yellowhill Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Adam Montelongo, Justin Montelongo, Ray Montelongo, Michael Montelongo, and Raymond Taylor.