Jonathan Gabriel Baca

Jonathan Gabriel Baca, born January 12, 1988, in Albuquerque, NM left us on August 4, 2021, to begin a new adventure. Jonathan leaves behind his mother, Mary Gueldenzoph; sister, Margaret (Baca) Sumruld and her husband, Chris; brother, Robert Baca; and beloved niece, Naura Sumruld, all of Albuquerque, a number of aunts, uncles and cousins, closest of whom are his aunt Kristine Gueldenzoph of Los Lunas; cousins, Paul Chavez of Los Lunas, David Baca of Chicago, and Saira Gueldenzoph of Denver. He was preceded in death by his father, Jacob Baca; grandparents, Doroteo and Carmen Baca of Adelino, NM and Richard and Rita Gueldenzoph; aunt, Teresa Gueldenzoph of Los Lunas.

Jonathan graduated from St. Pius X High School in 2006. He was a brilliant musician-songwriter, an award-winning journalist, podcaster, philosopher, debater and student of politics, art, and history. He loved to travel, learn about new cultures and people, build and fly drones and RC vehicles. He adored his dogs Ginger, Sophie and Benny and enjoyed taking them on long hikes

As a teen, Jonathan was the drummer, vocalist, and a songwriter for local punk band "The Disclaimers", worked with the band to produce a CD and played with various other groups around town, often on keyboard and vocals. He attended CNM and UNM where he started as a reporter for both school newspapers, winning awards, and recognition for several of his stories. Jonathan worked his way up to various editor positions on both publications. After leaving UNM, he established a freelance editing service called "Clean Your Copy Editing" where he proclaimed himself a "language jockey for hire". He produced and hosted podcasts for the Daily Lobo, called "Wolf Tracks" and had his own podcast, known as "Weird Wiki World". He had a special talent for interviewing people, really hearing them, and gently probing for the deep story. He loved to argue politics and remembered minute details of any documentary he watched, any book he read, or any lessons learned in class or through experience-as long as it interested, outraged or intrigued him. His wit, talent, intelligence, and tender heart will be sorely missed.

A celebration of Jon's life is being planned for the fall. Details will be posted on Jon's social media and will be available from close family and friends. If you have memories of Jon, any stories you can share here or at the memorial service will be treasured by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Serenity Mesa Recovery Center in memory of Jonathan.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 25, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. at FRENCH - Lomas with a reception to follow.