Christopher Quinonez

1975 - 2017

December 4, 1975 ~ September 23, 2017
Christopher Manuel Quinonez, 41, was a dedicated and courageous soldier, loyal father, son, brother, uncle and cousin. He passed away on Saturday, September 23rd at 9:33 pm surrounded by his loving family. He was an honorable man, a soldier who committed his life to serve and protect the innocent. His passing has allowed him to fulfill his purpose as a Warrior in Heaven. When asked about his life's calling he once said, "I am a warrior, I fight alongside the angels... I will sacrifice all that I am to protect..."
Chris loved God and his family first and foremost. He was the first born son of Victor Quinonez and Terri Hill, the eldest grandchild of Manuel and Dolores Quinonez, Dick R. Hill, and Elaine Gregovich, and step grandfather, Bud Gregovich. He was due to inherit the El Chihuahua Restaurant in SLC, as per his grandfather, Manuel's legacy. He is survived by four siblings, Nichol, Brandon, Skye, and Charli. He had four, wonderful children, Rily, 23, Jaedin,14, Nickolas, 12, and Mya, 10.
Chris was a restless, young kid always looking for adventure and fun. His passion was to, "live for the moment" regardless of the consequences. A handful to his Mom Terri, he loved sports and learned to ski. As a young kid he loved to travel to LA to visit his aunt Dee, a tradition that continued through early adulthood. He spent a year working as a medical assistant in Century City, CA before he enlisted in the U.S Marine Reserves.
During his time in the military, Chris, also known as, Sgt Quinonez, served honorably as an infantryman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion 23rd Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, USMCR, during the opening stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Chris' awards include but are not limited to, Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal. He was a brother to the men he fought beside, they knew they could always count on him to give them the shirt off his back. Chris would never leave a man behind.
Chris was challenged in many ways throughout his life, he gained extraordinary wisdom and insight and was able to relate to others in a genuine and authentic way. He was all about finding the positive outlook; even though at times his emotions were very heavy, he always kept his smile. He always had loving words of encouragement for you no matter what. He was full of contradictions, eccentric and charismatic, with a sardonic sense of humor and would always say the most shocking things to get a rise from people. His personality was a unique combination of childlike innocence and wisdom. He always challenged his family to be the best they could be. Towards his last days, he dedicated himself to working at the restaurant with his family, and strived for unity and love. He was proud to work beside his father and to demonstrate that he could continue his Grandfather's legacy.
We thank you for standing for your family's unity and love. We will continue your legacy and honor you as we move forward in life. Despite the depression, the darkness and despair, you gave abundant love to your family and was a joy to behold!
A funeral service will be held Monday, October 2, at 11:00 a.m. at Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary, 372 East 100 South, with visitation one hour prior. A vigil service will be held Sunday, October 1, at 7:00 p.m. also at the mortuary, where friends may call from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. All are welcome. Donations may be made to the Focus Marines Foundation. Semper Fidelis. Interment, Utah Veterans Memorial Park, 17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale.