Robert “Bobby” Quintanilla and Barbara Guzman Quintanilla passed unexpectedly on April 16, 2026.
They were inseparable in life, and they departed this world together, just as they lived, side-by-side, devoted to one another and to their family.
Robert, who was born on Sept. 22, 1949, was preceded in death by his father Pete Quintanilla; mother Mary Ellen Cobos; and brother Edward Quintanilla. He is survived by his sisters Delia Chavez and Diana Quintanilla.
Barbara Quintanilla, born on July 21, 1949, was preceded in death by her father Raymond Guzman Sr.; mother Hortensia Alvarez (Guzman); and brothers Richard Guzman and Steven Guzman. She is survived by her sister Laura Guzman-Pena and Raymond Guzman Jr.
They are both survived by their two children Robert Quintanilla Jr. (Deanna) and Susan Laura Ramirez (Salvador).
They also leave behind four cherished grandchildren Mariah Quintanilla, Joseph Sanchez, Marcus Quintanilla, and Leila Ramirez; as well as numerous treasured nephews, nieces and cousins.
Together, Bobby and Barbara raised a family centered on love, laughter and togetherness.
Robert attended San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara. He worked for Cottage Hospital, and later spent many years as a cable splicer with GTE/Verizon. He was known for his work ethic, loyal friendship and sense of humor.
Barbara attended Santa Barbara High School, and worked as a data entry operator at Mission Linen, Sansum Medical Center, and other local businesses. She was admired for her attention to detail, reliability, and kindness toward everyone she encountered.
In recent years, Bobby and Barbara spent eight years living with their son in Foresthill, California. During this time, they fully embraced the rhythms of a close-knit family life and the pleasures of their community.
They shared a love of fishing, barbecuing, visiting the local Indian casino, and — most of all — cooking and gathering with family.
Robert was an avid golfer who approached the game with good humor and humility, proudly content to shoot a bogey game. He was happiest when surrounded by his family, the center of his life.
Barbara was an incredible cook and became well known in the community for running her homemade “salsa” to neighborhood kids at the Dollar General Store and to neighbors.
She found joy in the everyday details of life. She loved playing games on her iPad, crocheting blankets, sweeping acorns, tending to her planters and gardens, and keeping a meticulously clean home.
Above all else, she loved her family fiercely and unconditionally.
Robert and Barbara will be remembered for their love, loyalty, laughter, hard work, and the deep imprint they leave on all who were blessed to know them. They leave behind a legacy of unconditional love.
A Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 7 at Welch-Ryce-Haider Funeral Chapel, 15 E. Sola St., Santa Barbara.
Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 8 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1740 Cliff Drive Santa Barbara, followed by interment at 12:30 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery 199 N. Hope Ave., Santa Barbara.
In lieu of flowers, the Quintanilla Family encourages donations be made to the Goleta Boys and Girls Club, 5701 Hollister Ave. Goleta, CA 93117 where Robert spent his early years.