John "Denny" Quintana

PABLO — John "Denny" Quintana, 35, of Pablo, died Aug. 5, 2005, as a result of drowning at Buffalo Rapids in the Flathead River.

Denny, a descendant of the Lakota Sioux Nation (Rosebud, S.D.), was born on Dec. 8, 1969, to John Quintana and Bernadine W. Big Eagle in Denver. He grew up in Denver and Longmont where he attended school. He was employed in the construction trades.

In June 2005 Denny came to the area from Colorado to visit relatives and friends. He fell in love with "God's Country," and decided to make the Flathead Reservation his permanent home. He moved to Pablo in July.

Denny was an avid sports fan, rooting for the Denver Broncos through thick and thin. He loved outdoor sports, particularly the water. Denny was known for his sense of humor and wit, always sure to bring a smile to the faces of those who surrounded him. He truly had a golden heart of goodness.

Survivors include his father, John Quintana of Denver; mother, Bernadine Big Eagle of Ronan; brother, Paul Big Eagle; niece, Jessie "Bear" of Clinton; special friends Jim Garret of South Dakota, Robert Peregoy of Ronan, and Priscilla Yellow Owl of Pablo; and numerous aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends. All miss him dearly.

Traditional Lakota services were held Aug. 11-12 in Ronan. Funeral Mass was celebrated Aug. 29 in Denver.

Arrangements were made under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home, Polson.