John Degrica Baca's Obituary
John D. Baca, 75, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved with his whole heart, in San Diego, California.
Born on September 23, 1950, in Trinidad, Colorado, John grew up with the kind of family values that shaped him into the devoted husband, father, and grandfather he would proudly become. In 1973, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving during the Vietnam War and earning the National Defense Service Medal. A natural problem-solver and jack-of-all-trades, he worked in radar and radio operations. There wasn't a problem he wasn't willing to tackle. He went on to work at the U.S. Army Pueblo Chemical Depot after his service. He eventually planted roots in San Diego, first working for Mission Tortilla. He then went on to build a long, respected career with Frito-Lay, rising through the ranks and earning numerous awards, including the President’s Ring of Honor.
San Diego also brought him the greatest blessing of his life: Carmen. From the moment they met, they were rarely apart. He adored her with a loyalty and tenderness that set the standard for their children: together , inseparable and the epitome of love, devotion, and hard work. They raised four children—Veronica, Vanessa (who he may or may not have reminded was the “favorite”), John, and Krista. Providing for his family wasn’t just a responsibility; it was his joy. He worked tirelessly to make sure his children felt safe, supported, and loved every single https://day.He instilled a strong sense of faith and community in his kids by attending Mass weekly and volunteering at their school—so often, in fact, that he earned formal recognition for his commitment. Through his actions, he showed his children what it meant to show up for others.
John cherished the simple moments. He loved to sing loudly in the car, explore new places and to take road trips that always seemed to include a not-so-short "short cut". This was usually followed by finding the "closest parking spot" that involved what seemed like a 2 block walk/run to keep up with him.
Becoming a grandfather was one of the greatest joys of his life. Whether he was crawling on the floor, handing out far too many treats, or proudly sharing their accomplishments with anyone within earshot. He loved his grandchildren with an open and overflowing heart. He believed each one was unstoppable and destined for something remarkable.
John gave deeply and freely. He was a steady mentor to nieces, nephews, and young family members, always offering encouragement, counsel, and reminders of self-worth. His home was a safe landing place for extended family, and his spirit was one of fairness, kindness, and fierce protection—especially toward those who were differently abled.
John was a prankster, a storyteller, and hilariously bad photographer —blurry, off-center, and somehow always capturing everyone in an awkward facial expression. Those imperfect pictures have become perfect memories, each one a reminder of his humor and the joy he sprinkled through everyday life.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Rose Barela (Trujillo) and Paul Barela, and his siblings Roy Paul, Joseph, and Veronica. His family takes comfort imagining his joyful reunion with his beloved sister Veronica.
He is survived by his wife and lifelong soulmate, Carmen Baca of San Diego; his children: Veronica (Tom) of Pittsburgh, PA; Vanessa of San Diego, CA; John (Amanda) of Stanwood, WA; and Krista (Rey) of San Diego, CA; his five grandchildren—Bella, Enzo, and Max Walsh of Pittsburgh, PA, and Grayson and Roman Baca of Stanwood, WA; his brother Raymond (Margie) Gurule of Colorado; his sisters Katherine McConnell, Pauline Duran, and Gloria Barela of Colorado; and a large, loving extended family of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins.
John will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever treasured by all who had the privilege of being loved by him.
If desired , donations to Sports for Exceptional athletes in John's name would be appreciated by him:
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