Joseph Margarito Baros III

Joseph M. Baros III, 65, was born on Monday, December 14, 1959 in Billings, Montana. He took his last breath and peacefully entered through heaven’s gates on October 8, 2025 while in Kaiser Hospital surrounded by his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Lillian Puerta-Baros who passed away in 2001 and his father Joseph M. Baros II who passed away in 2011.

Joseph graduated from Upland High School in 1978. Shortly after graduation he joined the United States Army in 1979. He was given an Honorable discharge in 1982 and completed his reserv obligation in 1985. He was extremely proud of his time in the Army with many stories about his time at Fort Bragg and over seas. He was very passionate about displaying his flags whenever and wherever possible.

Joseph started working for the California Department of Corrections at the California Institution for Men in 1984. While working as a Correctional Officer he enjoyed his time in the Honor Guard and as a Range Master before promoting to Correctional Sergeant. Although he retired in 2013 he fostered many special friendships that he cherished until his passing.

Joseph was married to Florence K. Romero in 1979 and divorced in 1987. He then married Jacqueline S. Laudeman in 2011 until his passing. He had 5 children and 15 grandchildren. Natalie Lynn Small (Jeremy) with 5 children from Miles City, Montana. Christopher Moreno with 6 children from Hemet, California. Cory Baros with 2 children from Sheridan, Wyoming. Mychal Valle from Chino, California. Joseph Flores (Carolyn) with 2 children from Atlanta, Georgia.

Joseph was a great husband, father and grandfather. He loved spending time with family and just being around people. He was nicknamed the Social Butterfly for that reason. He got a kick out of surprising and making people laugh. He was an amazing dancer. The girls would either be intimidated or standing in line for their turn around the dance floor.

Playing football and watching football was one of his favorite pastimes. Joseph had season tickets to the San Diego Chargers and tailgating was no exception. Everyone was welcome to his extravagantly decorated parking spot, enjoying drinks, good BBQ and most of all lots of camaraderie.

Joseph’s love for adventure really shined through every time he packed a bag or got in the car. As we celebrate Joseph’s life we remember the laughter, the love and the stories he told. We will miss you terribly! Until we meet again in heaven E.O.W. (End of Watch).