Joseph Quinones

Joseph Gilbert Quinones Jr. passed away peacefully on September 2nd, 2025, at 5:00 AM at the age of 83, after courageously battling heart and kidney complications.

Born in New York City to Joseph Gilbert Quinones and Florence Mary Cuebas, who was only 4'-5" tall, Joseph spent his early childhood in the Bronx. One of his earliest memories, at about age three, was looking down from their apartment in the housing projects and witnessing a bar fight. After his parents separated and following continued difficulties with his father that resulted in the birth of Joseph's younger brother, Joseph's mother made the courageous decision to relocate with her two young sons to California, where her brother-who was serving in the Navy-had arranged for their fresh start.

Upon arriving in California, Florence met Joseph Sobotka at a welcoming party hosted by her brother. Joseph and his younger brother were subsequently raised in Fremont, California, by their towering 6'-2" stepfather. Joseph Sobotka provided well for the family, ensuring that Joseph had his own room in their beautifully decorated home-a reflection of his mother's excellent taste that would influence Joseph's own appreciation for creating a lovely living space throughout his life. Though Joseph stood only 5'-4" as an adult and often wished he could have been taller, his stepfather's influence helped shape him into a man of strong character and integrity. Joseph fondly recalled a childhood moment that exemplified his stepfather's fair-handed discipline. After overhearing his brother being corrected in the kitchen, Joseph was discovered listening nearby. His stepfather said, "Joseph, you're the smart one. Here's for everything you've gotten away with"-and gave him equal treatment. Joseph would retell this story with genuine laughter, reflecting both his good humor and respect for the man who raised him.

At age 20, Joseph enlisted in the United States Army, serving three of those years as a communications specialist stationed in Germany. His military service instilled in him a strong work ethic and technical expertise that would benefit him throughout his career. Upon returning stateside, Joseph sought guidance from his father about his future career path. His father, recognizing Joseph's natural affinity for people, suggested he become a bartender.

At 26, Joseph relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he began working as a bar attendant. Through dedication and natural charm, he quickly advanced in the hospitality industry, eventually moving to Reno to work at Harrah's. Joseph witnessed the many temptations yet maintained his personal standards and integrity. His commitment to clean living became legendary among his colleagues. On one memorable occasion, management called him into the office and said, "Joseph, you were found drinking on the job." When Joseph expressed shock at the accusation, they revealed they had reviewed the security cameras and found proof: "You were found drinking orange juice, milk, soda... never alcohol." His unwavering principles earned him both respect and advancement in his career. He eventually managed his own bar, demonstrating that success could be achieved while maintaining one's moral standards.

Joseph's career took another direction when he saw that Nevada Bell was hiring, and he took the test and passed it, leading him to trade hospitality for telecommunications work. Moving next to the missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph was approached by them about their message. Though initially uninterested in their discussion, he accepted a copy of the Book of Mormon they offered. He proceeded to read the entire book through the night, and by morning, Joseph felt such a deep spiritual connection to its teachings that he asked if he could be baptized. His baptism took place on June 27, 1973, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to his faith.

This career change eventually brought him to Salt Lake City in the Murray area, where he dedicated 30 years to Mountain Bell and later Qwest, advancing to having his own office where he examined and repaired electrical equipment. Despite lacking a college degree, his exceptional work ethic and integrity earned him respect and professional success.

His greatest passion, however, was his service in the church. Joseph served in numerous leadership positions, including branch president, counselor in bishoprics, ward mission leader, high council member, and temple worker. He found particular fulfillment in completing temple work for his parents and serving others in his community.

While living in the Murray area, Joseph formed a special bond with the Rogers family during his service as a Stake Missionary. They welcomed him as "Uncle Joseph," and he became a cherished friend who shared countless Sunday dinners, holidays, and family celebrations. His thoughtful gifts to the children created treasured memories that they carry to this day.

Though Joseph hoped for marriage and a family of his own-dreams that remained unfulfilled-he never allowed disappointment to diminish his faith or his commitment to serving others. After retiring from his job around the year 2005, feeling spiritually prompted, he relocated to Rexburg, Idaho, where he continued to influence those around him positively.

Joseph found great joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved dining out, with Chuck-A-Rama and Sizzler being his favorite restaurants. In his later years, he would often treat himself to an ice cream cone from McDonald's, sitting contentedly in his car to enjoy it in peaceful solitude-a quiet moment of happiness that perfectly reflected his ability to find satisfaction in life's modest joys.

Joseph successfully recovered from COVID-19, demonstrating the same quiet determination he brought to all of life's challenges. However, his body eventually succumbed to heart and kidney failure. During his final days at Homestead Assisted Living Center, this humble man, who had sometimes felt lonely, discovered the depth of love surrounding him, receiving numerous visits and calls from friends who treasured their relationship with him.

Joseph often reflected that his years in Salt Lake City were his favorite-a testament to a man who found joy not in personal achievements but in faithful service, honest work, and principled living. He exemplified integrity and purity in all aspects of his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, brother Pasquale, and extended family members. He is survived by numerous friends whose lives were enriched by his quiet example of faith and integrity.

Joseph Gilbert Quinones Jr. will be remembered as an Army veteran, successful businessman, dedicated employee, faithful church member, and living proof that a life's worth is measured not by personal accomplishments alone, but by the depth of one's character and the positive impact on others' lives.

Graveside Service hosted by the Crandall/Rogers family
Sunday, September 21, 2025 @ 5:00 pm
Idaho State Veterans Cemetery
2651 Cromwell Ln, Blackfoot, ID 83221

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