David “Sammy” Quintana, 91, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, following an illness. He was born on May 13, 1935, in San Miguel, New Mexico, to Agapito and Maria Paz Quintana.

David spent his early years in El Cerrito, a small village in northern New Mexico, before his family moved to Las Vegas, New Mexico, where he graduated from Las Vegas High School (Robertson). A gifted athlete, David was a standout basketball and football player during his high school years.

Following high school, David proudly served his country for four years in the United States Navy. After completing his military service, he returned to Las Vegas and attended Highland University, where he earned an Associate’s degree in Electronics.

David began his career as an Electronics Technician in California with Lockheed Martin. He later returned to Albuquerque, where he worked for Gulton Industries, Mark IV Industries, and ultimately B.F. Goodrich. During his distinguished career, David was involved in the testing of multiple systems that would later operate on Space Shuttle missions.

On June 25, 1960, David married Inez Perdomo, the love of his life. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, friendship, and adventure. David and Inez were true partners throughout their marriage and enjoyed many wonderful experiences with their family and close friends, affectionately known as “the GANG.”

David’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his four children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Geri, along with Marisa, Antonio, Isabel, Lucas, and Logan.Robin, along with Billy, Ignacio, Cooper, Shai, and Sammy.David, along with Yvette (spouse), Nichol, Chris, Grace, Jazmine, and Everett.Christopher, along with Dulcinea (spouse), Christopher Jr., and Elena.

His grandson, Mark Martinez Jr., preceded him in death in 2019. David was also preceded in death by his siblings Evaristo, Adan, Cruz, Manuel, Geraldine, and Agapito. He is survived by his brother George, George’s wife Stella, and their family, as well as his brother-in-law Jim Perdomo, Jim’s wife Kathy, and their family.

David’s love of sports remained an important part of his life. After high school, he continued playing basketball in city leagues, where his teams won championships. He carried that passion for athletics into his family life, becoming his children’s number-one supporter and helping coach their teams. He was also a devoted University of New Mexico Lobo basketball fan, holding season tickets for decades and attending several conference tournaments in Las Vegas, Nevada.

A devout Catholic, David was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was deeply involved in his parish, Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church. His faith, devotion to family, love of country, and commitment to those around him were defining parts of his life.

David will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, proud veteran, loyal friend, passionate athlete, and man of deep faith. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories, adventures, laughter, and love he shared with them.

 A visitation will be held on Sunday - French Funerals Lomas Chapel at 1:30 p.m., with a rosary at 2:00 p.m. A reception will be held at 4:00 p.m., with details to be provided at the rosary. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, followed by a military burial with honors at 2:45 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.