Florentino Baca

Florentino Baca, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on October 14, 1945, in the town of Magdalena, New Mexico, Florentino was the cherished son of the late Jose T. Baca and Elia M. Baca. He was a man whose life was a testament to love, service, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

Raised in a bustling and loving family, Florentino was predeceased by his parents and a host of siblings: his brothers Jose Eloy, Alex, Glisson and his wife Rufina, Charlie and his wife Tommie, and Peter, and his sisters Lupita Baca, Mary and her husband Manuel Valenzuela, Lydia and her husband Carlos Lopez, Elizabeth, and Maria Anita and her husband Charles Marchman. Each of them held a special place in his heart, as did his beloved wife, Josephine, who he married on February 12, 1966. Together, they shared nearly six decades of a beautiful marriage, filled with laughter, love, and companionship until Josephine's passing.

Florentino proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1964 to 1968, earning the rank of Sergeant. He later worked over 30 years as an OSD Operator with Yellow Freight, carrying his strong sense of duty throughout his life.

A man of faith and community, Florentino was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus and a proud member of the Local 63 Teamsters. His generous spirit found further expression in his volunteer work at the Barstow Senior Center.

Florentino's greatest joy, however, was his family. He leaves behind his loving children, daughter Jennifer Baca, and son Edward, along with his wife Holly. He cherished his role as a grandfather to seven grandchildren and was blessed with twelve great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy and pride to his life. Florentino's legacy also lives on through his surviving siblings, Abie Baca and his wife Florie, Ricardo Baca, Rosie Camberos, and Rosemary Baca, as well as countless nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends and family who regarded him with deep affection.

An avid fisherman and a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, Florentino had a heart of gold that he wore proudly on his sleeve. He was known for cracking jokes and making people smile, always ready to brighten someone's day. His generous nature and infectious laughter left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Florentino's life will take place on April 10, 2026, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, located at 505 E Mountain View St, Barstow, CA 92311. The service will begin at 9:00 AM, where family and friends will gather to honor a life well-lived and a man deeply loved.

Florentino Baca's spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew him. His life, rich in love and service, serves as a guiding light to all who continue to cherish his memory.