Gloria Roseletta Quintana
What do you remember about Gloria? Share your stories and photos here, and invite others to come share their memories.
On Monday morning May 3, 2021, our beloved Gloria passed away in her sleep at the age of 69 at the home of her son, Michael, in Austin, Texas.
Born in Minturn, Colorado, she graduated from Grand Junction High School and attended Mesa State College. She married Butch Knapp in 1969 and raised two magnificent young men, Brian and Michael, in Grand Junction. She was a jack of all trades and an exceptional leader; a concrete form carpenter on the signature I70 & Glenwood Canyon project, built homes in California and was a dedicated supporter of the Brown Berets during the Chicano Movement before she retired to her home on Kimball Avenue.
Gloria made it her mission to connect daily with her sons, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, and her many friends she considered her extended family. She shared her daily adventures, scripture readings and always added a joke or two to lighten the conversation. She gave it her all at being the best sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was exceptionally close and devoted to her glorious late mother Helen.
One cannot help but smile when thinking of how much she enjoyed life. She had an artistic talent for creating Native American art, jewelry, dream catchers, and natural wood creations. A passion for striking a conversation with perfect strangers which instantly sparked a lifelong relationship. Gloria profoundly touched many hearts with her friendship, kindness, and great smile. Had a companionate heart for fellow mankind with struggles in life.
She was always looking for the next adventure or road trip. Visiting many Colorado historical and nostalgic destinations, enjoying local casinos along the way. Spending time with her sons Brian in Denver and Michael in Austin. Gloria's joyful and free spirit will warm our hearts forever. "Just take those old records off the shelf...Beep, Beep!"
She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Helen Quintana; grandparents, Luis and Sofia Archuleta, Maximiano and Felicita Quintana; companions, Roger Loback and Kenny Batey. Survived by brothers, Frank (Ethel) and Daniel Quintana; sisters, Sharon (Doug) Jones, Nancy (Randy) Stewart, Patsy (Scott) Moody, Berlinda (Steve) Moreale; sons, Brian and Michael; grandchildren, Marcus, Stephanie, Dalyn, Raelle; great-grandson, Denis; and many of her "queridos" nieces and nephews.
Family would like to sincerely thank all her friends and family who shared her life's journey. "Vaya con Dios".
A Viewing will be held Friday May 14, 2021 at 5pm at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary 2515 Patterson Rd, Grand Junction. A funeral Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday May 15, 2021 at 10a at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Gravesite services to follow at Orchard Mesa Cemetery.