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Joseph O. Quintero, age 82, a resident of Albuquerque for 54 years, died Sunday morning, November 12, 2000 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. He was a committed husband, a loving father and loyal friend who was an inspiration to all who knew him. Born on September 19, 1918 in Fort Worth, Texas the eldest of nine children to Faustino Quintero and Lorenza Olivas, he moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1946 and began a career with the federal government as a research technician. Previous to this time, he served as a Corporal in the United States Army during World War II. He was captured on the Island of Corregidor in the Philippines and endured four and a half years as a prisoner of war. He was awarded numerous medals including the New Mexico Medal of Honor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart. During his imprisonment he managed to make an American flag that was inspirational to his fellow POW's and to others after the war ended. The story of this flag is well documented in various books and articles of World War II history. He was an active member of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish for many years. People have been touched by his enthusiasm and humor whether it be at home, work, church, or bicycling around the North Valley. He will be missed by all and remembered with great love. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Gladys Ann Baltz-Quintero and their four children and families; Son, Joseph F. Quintero and wife, Josephine, children Nicholas and Serafina; Daughter, Margaret Ann Weber and husband, Joseph B. Weber, children, Allison, Diana and Sara; Son, Leo F. Quintero all of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Daughter, Mary L. Tafoya, and husband, Jacob S. Tafoya, children, Justyna and Isabella of La Mesilla, New Mexico; he is also survived by sisters, Lucy Oliveira, Ruth Scroggins; and brother, John Quintero; among other close family members. The rosary will be held Wednesday, November 15, 2000 at 7:00 p.m. and Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, November 16, 2000 at 12:00 p.m.. Both will take place at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church located at the corner of Fourth and Alameda NW. Burial will follow directly at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. A reception will follow the services at 5:00 p.m. at the Nativity Parish hall. Pallbearers are John Quintero, Joseph B. Weber, Jacob S. Tafoya, Mark Madrid Sr., Mark Madrid Jr., David Martinez, Leo B. Klein, David Oliveria. Memorial donations may be made to St. Felix Pantry, 4020 Barbara Lp. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Arrangements are being handled by Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th Street NW, 505-343-8008.
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