Richard Baca

Richie was born April 27, 1937 in Albuquerque, NM to parents Pablita J. and Jose Miguel Baca.  He was called to heaven on August 22, 2021 with his brother Ray at his side.  Richie was preceded in death by his parents Pablita J. and Jose Miguel Baca; brothers Juan, Joe and Robert Baca, and special nephew Eloy Archunde.

Richie is survived by three sisters Rita and Soila Baca, and Helen Robinson; and one brother Ray Baca, as well as many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Richie served honorably in the U.S. Air Force for 8 years and served a one year tour in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968.  In early 1968 Tan Son Nhut Air Base, where he was stationed, was attacked by the North Vietnamese with mortars and rockets.  Richie survived the attack and was interviewed about the experience by CNN national news.  He ended his service in 1970 and worked at Amigusto bar in Albuquerque.  He then worked as a cook for the VA hospital and retired after 20+ years of service.  He also served as commander at the VFW post 6216 where he received a Presidential Award from then President Jimmy Carter, and presented to him by then Governor Bruce King, for outstanding accomplishments by a Vietnam veteran.

A funeral mass will take place Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 9:00am at Holy Family Catholic Church and a Interment at 3:00pm with full military honors at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  A special thanks to the staff at the VA Hospital hospice unit for taking good care of him and putting up with his complaining.