Arthur Baca

Those we love don't go away.
They walk beside us everyday,
Unseen, unheard, but always near.
So loved, so missed, so very dear.

Arthur Baca was born on September 29, 1946, in Albuquerque, New Mexico and was called home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 26, 2026, at the age of 79.

Arthur was a graduate of Valley High School. It was in choir where he discovered his passion for singing. He also enjoyed theater and the sport of wrestling. Arthur was very social and loved being around people, qualities that served him well when he began his career in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country for more than 22 years.

Arthur retired honorably from the Air Force at the rank of Master Sergeant (E-7). During his distinguished career, he received numerous military honors and decorations, including three Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals, four Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, multiple Air Force Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal and other awards and ribbons recognizing his service.

One of Arthur's greatest military accomplishments was being honored by the United States Air Force Recruiting Service as the Top Air Force Recruiter in the Nation, an achievement which was documented in the January 1985 issue of Air Force Magazine. For this achievement he was also given the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Award, associated with Sam E. Parish, CMSAF, USAF and was further honored at a dinner by the Governor of the State of New Mexico—an honor Arthur described as one "bestowed upon a very few."

Arthur's Air Force career took him all over the world, but New Mexico was always his home. After his service, Arthur, along with his wife, Magdalena T. Baca and their six children moved back to New Mexico. Arthur and Magdalena shared 49 years of marriage and became the proud grandparents of ten grandchildren.

Arthur continued serving his community working for the City of Belen for another 17 years.

Once retired, Arthur enjoyed his time gardening, spending time with Magdalena, and making memories with his grandchildren.

Arthur is preceded in death by: Granddaughter Meya Paris Perea. Parents, Salome and Sofia Baca, sisters: Jeanette (BJ) Sanchez, Louise Teupell, Dorothy Baca Martinez and brother Anthony Baca.

Arthur is survived by: His loving wife, Magdalena T. Baca (née Lene T. Morales, from Lompoc, California) and six children; Sophia M. Perea, Arthur Baca Jr (Darren Weimer), John P. Baca (Jessica), Mary F. Poore (Sean), Michael A. Baca (Annie), Jose A. Baca (Frances). Sisters: Esther Lucero (Charlie), Margaret Saiz (Pete) and Roseanne Esquibel (Joe). As well as Grandchildren: Jordan Perea Hunter; Isaiah, Santiago and Ezra Baca; Tomas, Lilly and Christopher Martinez; Nova and Lyra Baca.

The family would also like to extend their gratitude to Arthur's Presbyterian Hospice Nurses Misty, Becky, and Dr. Hawk for their care and support.

Services for Arthur will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. A rosary will be recited at 8:00 am, followed by the mass at 9:00 am. Arthur will then be laid to rest at Mt. Calvary Cemetery immediately following services.

The family would like to invite his friends and family to a celebration of Arthur's life at the Moose Lodge located at 2121 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102 after the services.

Arthur's arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where an online guest register is available at www.noblin.com

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