James Neal "Champ" Baker

James Neal Baker (Champ), 91, was born in Cebolla New Mexico on July 27, 1932.  He married the love of his life Grace T. Baker in 1957 and lived in Espanola until his passing on August 27, 2023. 

He is proceeded in death by his son Glen A. Baker, his parents Dwight Baker and Dorothy Mae Baker and his brothers Russel, Ted, Joe, Clyde, George, and Glenn Baker.  He is also proceeded in death by his sisters Mary Nell Frost and Doris Jean Baker.

James Baker is survived by his wife Grace Baker, sons Ronald Baker wife Linda, Patrick Baker, and daughter Renee G. Baker husband Don Maestas.   God blessed James with 12 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren James was a devout Catholic and attended church at Sacred Heart Church in Espanola and San Jose Catholic Church in Hernandez. 

He loved working with his horses and cattle, hunting and fishing and just driving around in as he called it the “high country.”  He also proudly served in the Korean War. 

Services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Espanola, New Mexico on September 05, 2023.  Rosary will be at 11:30 AM and the Church services will be at 12:00 PM.  James will be buried at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:30 PM.    

The family of James “Champ” Baker has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.   www.devargasfuneral.com   505-747-7477