It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Maria Dolores Quintana, affectionately known as "Lola" to those who loved her most. On January 20, 2026, surrounded by the warmth of her cherished family, Maria peacefully completed her courageous journey after battling liver cancer with the same grace and strength that defined her remarkable life.
Born on April 17, 1962, in Tulare, California, to the late Bernardino and Maria (De Los Santos) Quintana, Maria brought joy and laughter into the world from her very first breath. She carried that infectious spirit with her throughout her 63 years, lighting up every room she entered and touching countless lives along the way.
Maria, a seasoned corporate security officer, dedicated 25 years to supporting companies like Cisco Systems, Compaq, Abbot Vascular, and Facebook in Silicon Valley. As the lead trainer, she set up many colleagues and supervisors for success. Known as Big Mama, she took many team members under her wing, offering guidance and support. People gravitated towards her for laughter, encouragement, and compassion. Through these interactions, she built many friendships and was admired for building people up professionally and personally. Before retiring, Maria’s last act as a supervisor was fighting for an increase in wages for her team, and she achieved the increase in pay, ending her career on a high note.
Maria's greatest treasures were her familia and the precious moments they shared together. Whether it was gathering around the table for a warm meal, sharing a good laugh over T.V shows and movies, or taking peaceful walks along the beach while collecting seashells and memories, or finding solace in quiet moments of prayer when she needed God’s strength to cary her, she understood that life's most beautiful gifts couldn't be bought—they were found in faith, love, laughter, and togetherness.
As a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Maria possessed a rare combination of deep compassion, boundless empathy, and a sense of humor that could turn any ordinary day into something special. Her laughter was contagious, her hugs were legendary, and her loving warmth was a gift that only she could give. She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel like the most important person in the world, and her shoulder was always available to anyone who needed someone to lean on and feel a sense of belonging.
Maria's legacy lives on through her beloved children: Yesenia Fisher, Xavier De La Rosa, and Joaquin De La Rosa. Her spirit shines brightly in her three precious grandchildren—Kolt Jr., Alivia, and Angel—who were the absolute lights of her life and who will carry forward her tradition of love, laughter, and devotion to their familia.
She is also survived by her loving brothers, Bernardino Quintana Jr. and Jose Manuel Quintana, and her dear sister, Maria Guadalupe Rodriguez, along with many cherished nieces and nephews who will forever remember Tía Lola's special way of making everyone feel loved. Maria was predeceased by her beloved brother, Armando Quintana, and we find comfort knowing they are reunited once again.
While our hearts are heavy with grief, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life filled with purpose, love, and the kind of joy that makes the world a brighter place. Maria's legacy is not measured in years, but in the countless lives she touched, the love she shared, and the laughter that will echo in our hearts forever.
"Her love was our compass, her laughter was our music, and her memory will be our treasure always.”
Memorial service will be held at Grunnagle-Ament-Nelson Funeral Home on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at Paine's Restaurant, 421 East St, Hollister, CA.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Maria Dolores Quintana, affectionately known as "Lola" to those who loved her most. On January 20, 2026, surrounded by the warmth of her cherished family, Maria peacefully completed her courageous journey after battling liver cancer with the same grace and strength that defined
Saturday, February 21, 2026
11:00 am
Grunnagle-Ament-Nelson Family Funeral Home
870 San Benito Street Hollister, CA 95023
Saturday, February 21, 2026
1:00 pm
Paine's Restaurant
421 East Street Hollister, CA 95023