Jose P.A. Quintana

Jose P.A. Quintana, patriarch of our large family who found their beginnings in a house near the end of a small street in Sugar House, died peacefully at his home in Sandy on April 22, 2026. He was 90. Jose had battled bone cancer for the past few years but remained a valiant soldier throughout. He was a devout Catholic, and the steadfast leader of his family.

Jose was born in Questa, New Mexico to Raymundo and Siria on June 10, 1935. He and his siblings enjoyed the surrounding desert atmosphere, but he yearned to explore different opportunities and locations. Jose served in the U.S. Army with the 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War. He continued his service by earning Airborne certification after completing “Jump School” at Fort Benning, GA. He was also Special Forces qualified. He was very proud of his service and perpetually flew Old Glory outside his home. It was during his time in the military that he began his family with the love of his life Mae Frances Sanchez. They celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2006. Always a guiding light in his life, she was his best friend and source of stability, love, and affirmation. Together they always gave glory to God by being devout Catholics and making sure their home was always filled with faith. Jose and Mae went on to raise seven children through good times and bad, always providing love, support, and a home. Jose worked for the VA and established a topsoil company aptly named, “Joe Quintana & Sons Topsoil” which included a gigantic dump truck and many adventures. He was an avid car collector his entire life, which was a passion he shared with his family and friends. He and Mae were also animal lovers, particularly dogs, which they had dozens of throughout their lives. There was always a dog or more in the Quintana household and they were loved unconditionally.

Jose always had a spirit of service, and his Cadillac could be seen all over the Salt Lake Valley driving to visit or serve those in need. He was always willing to donate time, talent and treasure to several causes, one of which was the Carmelite Monastery in Holladay. He had a fantastic sense of humor, and he was a fortifying presence at family parties, especially after Mae died.

Jose is preceded in death by his wife Mae; son Mark; his parents Raymundo and Siria; his brother Jake; his sister Dorthy, his great grandsons Jesse Marquez and Adonias Lopez; and his sons-in-law Calvin Sweat and Michael Pellum. He is survived by his children Raymond (Carla), Yvonne (Scott), Tim (Jaime), Bonnie (Gary), Michael (Tina), Lori (Valdez), and Mark’s wife Rita; 23 Grandchildren; 33 Great Grandchildren; 11 Great-Great Grandchildren; and his sister Linda.

The beginning chapter of our family’s origin story has ended with the loss of Gramps. But our family is large and will continue to grow with our founders, roots of love and faith, Mae and Jose, always remembered and perpetually in our prayers.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him.

A Vigil will be held Tuesday April 28, 2026, at 6:00pm St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church (1375 Spring Lane Salt Lake City, UT 84117), visitation to follow. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday April 29, 2026, at 11:00 am with viewing one hour prior to Mass at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Rite of Committal: Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park (17111 South Camp Williams Road Bluffdale, Utah 84065).