It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Franklin Anthony Baca, 57, of Antonito, Colo., who left us on Feb. 19, 2025. Born on March 20, 1967, Franklin was a beloved son to his mother, Norma Salazar Gomez, and his father, Kenneth F. Gomez.
Franklin was known for his vibrant personality and his love for life. He had a passion for painting and working with his hands, which brought him great joy. He enjoyed hunting elk and had a deep appreciation for music.
Franklin loved meeting new people and formed lasting connections with those around him. His love for riding bikes and spending time with his dogs was evident, and he cherished every moment spent with his loving family. Franklin's spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Franklin is survived by his loving mother, Norma Salazar Gomez, and father, Kenneth Gomez, of Alamosa, Colo., as well as his stepbrother Ken Paul Gomez, aunt Rebecca and Filbert Gomez of Thornton, Colo. He will also be remembered by his cousins Chris and Rochelle Gomez of Johnstown, Colo., Daniel Gomez of Phoenix, Ariz., Andrea Gomez and her children Christian, Jacob, and Ella Arredondo of Thornton, Colo., great-great-aunt Connie and George Borrego of Denver, Colo.
He was preceded in death by his biological father, Gerald Jerome Baca, and his grandparents, Frank Anthony Salazar and Mary Nava Salazar.
A viewing will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 12 to 4 p.m. at Romero Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Antonito, Colo., with Recitation of the Rosary to follow at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Conejos, Colo. The Mass of the Resurrection will be on March 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. also at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, with interment to follow at the Ortiz Cemetery, Ortiz, Colo.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to his mom Norma to help with the purchase of a headstone.
He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness and joy will remain with us forever.
To leave online condolences, please visit romerofuneralhomes.com. The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa.
