Dolores Baca

1961-2020 Our beloved sister, niece, cousin and friend, Dolores Baca, left this world too soon at the age of 59 on May 7, 2020. Dolores was born in Belen, NM on April 7, 1961 to Simon and Bernadina Baca. She was preceded in death by both parents; brother, Simon Baca Jr., and sister, Shirley Baca. Dolores leaves behind honorary mom, Paunice Driskill; brother, Jacob Baca, sisters, Senovia Baca and Mary Jean Pierso; brother, Ricky Baca; honorary sister, Emily Walker; Aunt Odelia Baca; Uncle Wilfred and Aunt Donna Baca; Aunt Viola; Aunt Eva and Uncle Elliott; ten nieces and nephews; ten great nieces and nephews; several cousins and her best friend, Maria Flores. We will always remember Dolores' infectious smile, outgoing personality and her love of life. All in a 4 foot 6 inch spunky frame. Dolores’ mother allowed Dolores to be cared for with Paunice, her parents, Jim and Joyce Harder along with Emily, her soul sister in November 1994. Her outgoing personality blossomed as she lived a full life by enjoying several activities in the community. These included, visiting amusement parks, swimming, carnival rides, going to dances and Dolores saw the world while on a hot air balloon ride. She enjoyed visiting mom, sitting at the kitchen table drinking coffee and eating cookies. Dolores also enjoyed spending time with her family by going to family functions, playing with her nieces and nephews sitting on the floor with their toys and making sure they were behaving themselves. Ten years ago Dolores retired from Adelante Day Program and enjoyed the leisurely, simple life of watching sunrises and sunsets. She also had her hip replaced during this time. Maria, her best friend, would take Dolores on outings to the zoo, bingo games and senior dances as she continued to enjoy dancing while in her wheelchair, still full of life. She enjoyed getting her nails and hair done by Cindy Benavidez, who also included Dolores into her life by inviting her to family functions. The community of Belen has also received Dolores’ love and gave their love back to her. Our family, friends and community of Belen are joined together in sorrow for the loss of our beloved sister. Please enjoy one last cookie from Dolores as she enjoyed giving out imaginary cookies. Our family would also like to thank the Presbyterian Hospital Palliative team and especially nurse, Jessime, for providing Dolores with the passionate and tender care during her stay. Services for our sister will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2019, at Romero Funeral Home Chapel, with a Rosary to be recited at 10:00 AM and Interment will follow at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, these will be private services for immediate family only. Pallbearers are Edward Candelaria, Vincent Zamora, Pete Zamora, Russell Piersol, Ricky Baca, and Simon Baca. Please sign Dolores’s online tribute at www.romerofuneralhomenm.com Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen, NM

Dolores Baca

April 14, 1961 - May 7, 2020