Gilroy Richard Baca

Baca, Gilroy Richard Age, 74, passed away on the 3rd of May 2012 after a long illness spanning nearly 25 years. The eldest of six children, Gil was born on the 15th of June, 1937 to Mauricio Baca and Estella Candelaria Baca. He attended Sacred Heart Catholic School, graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1955 and enlisted in the Air National Guard shortly after graduation. Gil became a police officer in 1958 and served the citizens of Albuquerque for nearly 27 years before retiring as a Sergeant. He maintained his enlistment in the Air Force, Air National Guard and was called to active duty as a result of the U.S.S. Pueblo incident. He spent 18 months on active duty assigned to Tuy Hoa Air Base in Vietnam. He retired from the Air Force as a Master Sergeant. Exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam caused him many health problems, which began shortly after his return. Despite declining health, he spent the years following his retirement enjoying his children and three grandchildren. He passed away peacefully after his long fight with illness, in the presence of his brothers; sisters; brothers-in-law; his four children as well as his favorite and devoted care giver, James Sanchez. Gilroy was preceded in death by his parents, Mauricio and Estella and recently, his brother Robert (Bobby). He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Alex, Jimmy, Rose and Cecilia; children, Julianna, Christopher, Ralph and Rick; grandchildren; Melissa, Christopher and Tomas and numerous other friends and family. He will be well remembered by all for his kindness and generosity as well as his truly "unorthodox jokes. A Visitation will take place at Garcia Mortuary in the Chapel of Angels on Monday, May 14, 2012 from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm followed by a Reciting of the Rosary at 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 301 Stover Ave SW Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at 12:00 pm. Interment will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 3:00 pm. Garcia Mortuary
717 Stover Ave. SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
505-243-5222