David M. Baca

David M. Baca, "Sugar Bear" went home to our Heavenly Father on June 16, 2020 after a valiant fight with cancer. A lifelong resident of Albuquerque, NM, grew up in Wells Park. He was born to Alonso and Mary Baca on January 18, 1973. He is survived by his Parents, his life partner Vanessa Gonzales who was his strength and comfort. His children Matthew and Mariah Baca and their mother Carla Ramirez. The light of his life his grandson Malaki Baca and his mother Kitty. Sister Elizabeth Sandoval and Cousin by blood sister at heart, Deborah Lozano. Stepson Martin Gonzales, Destinee and granddaughter Mila and Stepson Estevan Gonzales. David deeply loved and was a devoted uncle to his nieces and nephews, Jasmine Gomez and his soon to be great nephew Zen, Jaylah Sandoval, Alijah Sandoval, Andrew Sandoval, and Jonah Sandoval. Aunt Patricia Perez, Aunt Christine and Uncle Arthur Ramirez and all extended family and friends who loved him dearly. Vanessa's parents, Manjo and Tory Sandoval and the extended family were incredibly special to David. He was blessed with many beautiful memories they shared together. He loved them and was grateful to be a part of their family. They traveled together all-around New Mexico. He visited Lake Tahoe, Denver, Dallas, California, and Las Vegas to name a few. He experienced a cruise that took him to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta which was his favorite. Another cruise that took him to Catalina Islands and Ensenada Mexico. David retired after 23 ½ years as a Chemical Treatment Supervisor from the Albuquerque Bernalillo Water Authority. David enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling. Some of his favorite spots were Eagle's Nest, Jemez and Pecos. He loved all thing "NM" such as the Zia symbol which he wore on many of his caps and tee shirts. He loved NM music on 89.1 KANW. His love for NM food had him dining at Sopa's Restaurant and Garcia's Kitchen often. Green and Red chile covered his plate as he could not decide which he liked more. Let us not forget his sweet tooth, donuts were his favorite. David's passion was boxing. In 2005 David began training boxers at Jack Candelaria Gym alongside Luis Chavez. This was the beginning of a successful training career. David created DMB Boxing in 2006. This gym would be the home that sculpted many talented fighters. David's dedication leads his son Matthew to a professional signed contract that consisted of multiply fights. In 2014, ESPN televised Matthew's fight. This was an extremely proud moment and accomplishment for David. During David's life he was an inspiration to many people. He was a father figure and role model. He had a kind and giving heart that was recognized and admired by all who knew him. He presented himself with dignity even during his most difficult times. His children Matthew and Mariah and his grandson Malaki were his pride and joy and his greatest accomplishments. David "Sugar Bear" will be greatly missed but will live in our hearts forever. May he rest peacefully. Interment of cremated remains will be held at 11am on June 30, 2020, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1900 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Arrangements entrusted to: Riverside Funeral Home of Albuquerque 225 San Mateo Blvd NE (505) 764-9663