Fred Baca, a man of grit, humor, and a heart as vast as the New Mexico horizon, passed away peacefully at the age of 76. While he spent his final days in Albuquerque, his soul remained deeply rooted in Socorro—the place he called home for most of his life and where his legacy was truly built.

A master of his craft, Fred possessed an unmatched talent for mechanics, & paint and body work. Alongside his brother, Sonny, he co-founded Baca’s Paint & Body Shop in Socorro, where his meticulous hands restored more than just vehicles—he restored pride to his community. Ever the entrepreneur, Fred expanded the business with a wrecker service, becoming a familiar, helping hand to countless neighbors in their time of need.

In later years, Fred traded the shop for the open road. As a driver for Navajo, MTC, and ABF, he traversed the country, collecting stories & telling jokes as easily as he clocked miles. He never met a stranger; to Fred, every person was a new connection, and every mile was an adventure. He lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. If you know, you know. 

Fred was reunited in eternal rest with his parents, Dorothy and Ramon Baca, and his siblings Ida Mae Aguilar, Ronald Baca, Emma Henderson, and Margaret Trujillo.

His spirit lives on through his daughter, Bernadette Baca, and his cherished grandchildren: Issiac Baca, Aryana Baca, and Adryan Triana. He was the immensely proud great- grandfather of Annistacia and Axel Triana. To his family, he leaves a legacy of creative brilliance, a razor-sharp wit, generosity and an unwavering, “no matter what” kind of love.

He will be deeply missed by his brothers, Ramon “Sonny” (Genevie) and Sylfred (Kristol); his sisters, Belinda Dunaway (CH) and Marylou Trujillo; his brother-in-law, Manuel Trujillo; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will long remember his jokes and his legendary stories.

Freddy once said, “I’ve had my day in the sun.” Though the sun has set on his earthly journey, the warmth of his memory will remain in our hearts forever.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring and compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"