Bianca Quintana

Bianca Quintana (July 27, 1993 – August 14, 2024)

Bianca Quintana, loved by many and kind to all, was tragically killed the morning of August 14, 2024. She had just turned 31 years old.

Bianca is survived by her husband of six years, David Quintana, her two sons, Elias and Ezekiel, her parents Daniel and Maria Dominguez, brothers Marcos and Daniel, and sisters Maricruz, and MariaIsabelle. She was Nina to six godchildren: David, Jonathan, Aaliyah, Jayden, Ava, and Ambrose, all of whom she cared for like her own children.

She is preceded in death by her brothers Lazaro in 2016 and Sergio in 2023, who she missed dearly and thought about often.

Bianca gave so much goodness to the world and existed intentionally to love, to be of service, to be kind, and to protect.

Bianca's journey began July 27, 1993, born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with a sparkle that was evident from a young age. As a baby she participated in a baby pageant and won not one, not two, but three awards: Chunkiest Baby, Cutest Smile, and Cutest Bikini. Her charm was undeniable, proving early on that she had a way of drawing people in with her warmth and spirit.

Growing up, Biancas's determination and passion were clear. Playing softball was her passion. Softball was more than a sport for her, it was a way of life. From her early days at Westgate and South Valley Little Leagues to her high school years at Rio Grande, Bianca showed incredible dedication for the sport. Her commitment to the game was unwavering, spending countless hours on the field. Her tenacity and competitiveness was something to behold. She shared stories when pitching, she would intentionally hit the opposing batter in an attempt to intimidate the other team. For her family, playing baseball and being at the fields was the norm. Bianca shared a story of when she and her older brother Lazaro played on the same baseball team – the team consisted of all boys. During one of her at bats, the opposing pitcher hit her with a pitch. She was visibly upset and even cried as she walked to first base. As Lazaro went to the mound the next inning, that pitcher made his way to the plate to take his turn at the plate. Lazaro made it a point to return the favor, he hit that pitcher with a pitch and laughed telling Bianca, “I got you sister.”

Bianca's reserved nature and dislike for being the center of attention were well-known. I am certain she is upset with each and every one us because of all the attention we are giving. This character trait started early in life. If you are familiar with the coming of age Quinceanera tradition, you know the demands placed on the young woman transitioning from childhood to adulthood on her fifteenth birthday. For Bianca, this celebration required her to literally be the center of attention. Though nerve-wrecking for her, it was an early example and testament to her willingness to embrace moments of significance, even when they took her out of her comfort zone. She wore her big red dress with pride, a color she loved dearly. Bianca shared a story of her short middle school career playing basketball. She tried out for, and made the team at Truman Middle School. She described a moment during a game – she was excited because she had finally made a basket. Unfortunately, it was for the other team. To her it didn’t matter though, she took it in stride, owned the moment, and used it as an opportunity to learn and grow. If you knew Bianca when she turned 15, you’ll remember the red Mitsubishi Eclipse she received for her birthday. Sounds like an awesome birthday present, until she started describing it - it

was red and had green fenders. She even described the car as running on air instead of gas. Learning to drive it was a challenge – it had a standard transmission. Her family told stories of her stalling the car a countless number of times, however she refused to give up. Although she laughed at the car when telling stories, she was grateful for receiving it, and for her, it was a symbol of her joy and independence. Her determination shined through when learning to drive. There were stalls and setbacks. However, her persistence made her a pro behind the wheel. This persistence continued through to the Police Academy where she earned the award for top driver in her class. It’s ironic that she hated being the center of attention, because so many times in her life the successes she achieved made her the center of everyone’s attention.

There were no loves in her life greater than her children, Elias and Ezekiel, for whom she completely dedicated her life. Every decision she made was to ensure the quality of their lives was the best it could be. She intentionally worked the graveyard shift to ensure the boys always had a parent to pick them up or drop them off at school. She spent endless hours at the baseball, football, and soccer fields to attend her boys practices and games – often going straight to the field after completing a 12 hour graveyard shift and getting no sleep. She was working toward her bachelor’s degree knowing it would not only benefit her boys financially, but also show them the value of an education and that finishing something you start is important. She was only four classes short of earning her degree. No matter what she had on her plate, Bianca made the time for her children – to her, motherhood was the most important job she had.

Bianca met David in 2015. They were married on February 3rd, 2018. David and Bianca adored one another. They had the ability to work with each other to overcome the challenges of life and marriage and grow even closer. They were each ambitious in their dreams and would find ways to support one another in any way possible. Seeing each other succeed was a major priority for each of them. When either needed tough love, they knew how to kick each other in the butt so the other would be receptive. They prioritized their kids and each other above all else. Made each other’s doctor’s appointments. Brought home each other’s favorite snacks. Held each other accountable to their plans individually, and together. They would often sit and talk about the future. Where would they travel to next? What new activity can they start together? What would their next house look like? What city would they move to? They committed to a philosophy with each other of not just saying they wanted to do things but figuring out ways to actually do those things. He will remember her most for the unwavering support and love she provided him as well as her commitment to each other.

Bianca gave all of herself to the people she loved and that included her community. She will be remembered as someone who showed kindness to everyone and always gave of herself. Whether it was food or clothing to someone in need, a kind word, volunteering for a valuable cause, or giving her last $20 because someone needed it more – she’d find a way to help.

Bianca began her law enforcement career in 2020 with the Los Lunas Police Department. She had a short stint as an officer with Albuquerque Public Schools before joining the Albuquerque Police Department in 2022. Her desire to become an officer stemmed from her desire to help people. In every facet of her life, she wanted to help those in need and decided that becoming an officer would give her the best opportunity to do so. She is remembered by her peers and colleagues as someone who led through kindness, had a playful nature, and giving heart. As an officer she had an innate ability to connect with others and form meaningful relationships like no other. She’d connect to those she saw

struggling in silence and lift them up. This included fellow officers, victims she supported in her role as an officer, and even arrestees.

Bianca was an avid softball player and coach. Many of her most meaningful relationships were created because of her passion for the game and the ball field. Her passion for the game and the competition continued from her days growing up on the little league fields and continued to the softball fields she played on today. Bianca was that player you loved and hated – you loved when she was on your team but hated when you had to play against her. She was a highly competitive player and hated to lose. She was asked to play on a highly competitive women’s team, Affliction. The ladies on that team became her role models and mentors – to her they were “The Pink Team,” to them, she was their Pink Starburst.

Bianca was known by friends and family as “B.” So naturally, her personal logo and mascot became the bumblebee. It’s fitting as the tidy and meticulous nature of the bumblebee profoundly mirrored Bianca’s personality. Her family will never see a bee without thinking of Bianca - they ask you to do the same.

As a wife, mom, sister, Nina, Tia, friend, teammate, coach, and officer, Bianca touched countless lives with her kindness, enthusiasm, and unyielding spirit. B's life was one of courage, perseverance, and genuine kindness. The impact she had on those around her was profound. Her legacy will live on in the memories we share and the lessons she taught us. As we remember Bianca today, let us hold dear her stories that make us smile, her qualities that inspire us, and her love that she so freely gave. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit and memory will forever remain a cherished part of our lives and hearts.

The family is grateful for the outreach and support they’ve received. They look forward to remembering Bianca and celebrating her life on Monday, September 9th at 10:30am. The public is invited to attend the services at Legacy Church located in Albuquerque, New Mexico.