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Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Daughter Remembers 'the Most Generous Man'
By T.J. Wilham
Journal Staff Writer
Leo Baca survived being a World War II fighter pilot and a New Mexico State Police officer.
But a late-night drive home with his wife of 62 years took his life.
Baca, 86, was killed early Monday when a three-time convicted felon who was fleeing from police in a stolen car slammed into his Pontiac.
Baca was just a block and half from his home. He and his wife, Connie, had spent the evening at a casino playing slots.
Baca is survived by two children, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
"He was the best man, the most generous man I have ever known in my life," his daughter, Connie Jo Baca said. "I am so blessed to have had a dad like him."
Born in Farmington, Baca moved to Albuquerque in the 1950s shortly after he got a job with the State Police.
He had already survived several dangerous missions in World War II.
When he moved to Albuquerque, he bought a house on Bellamah NE, where he and his wife raised four children and lived for more than 50 years.
Wanting to spend more time with his children and avoid the dangers of police work, Baca left the State Police and took a job at the newly created Sandia National Laboratories.
He eventually retired as a security guard and spent most of his time cooking, fishing, hunting and being with his family.
"Even though he was 86, he was a vibrant human being," son Nick Baca said. "All of the people who knew him loved him.
Baca's family said they hold no hostility against Jason Butner, who has been charged in connection with Baca's death.
They said everything is still sinking in, and they are focused on Connie Baca's health.
She broke two ribs and is expected to be hospitalized for a few days.
"I hope this sends a message to people that we can't tolerate this," Connie Jo Baca said. "Wonderful human beings are driving around out there, and they are vulnerable."
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