Lucy "Chana" "Chanita" Baca

Lucy “Chana” “Chanita” Baca passed away in Rio Rancho, New Mexico on October 29th, 2021 at the age of 82.

Lucy is survived by her daughters, Christine Eisenberg and son in law, David Eisenberg of Rio Rancho, New Mexico and Eileen Baca-Penner and son in law, Douglas Penner of Placitas, New Mexico; the loves of her life, her grandchildren, Kateri Eisenberg and Mandolin Eisenberg. Lucy is preceded in death by her parents Maria Gallegos and Florencio Baca.

Lucy was born on December 8, 1938 to Maria (Gallegos) Baca and Florencio Baca in El Cerro, New Mexico. She married Dennis Baca on February 28, 1960 in San Ignacio Church in Martinez Town. They were happily married for over 60 years and had two beautiful daughters.

Lucy was renowned in her family as the world’s greatest tortilla maker for over 70 years. She enjoyed cooking traditional New Mexican foods and spending time with her family. Lucy was an active member of the Catholic Church.

The family asks that any Memorial Contributions be made to the Mended Hearts New Mexico or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

“Oh, Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the winds and whose breath gives life to all the world, hear me. I am small and weak. I need your strength and wisdom.

Let me walk in beauty and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice. Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.

 I seek strength, not to be superior to my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy – myself.

Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes, so when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit will come to you without shame.”   - Chief Yellow Lark

A Catholic Mass will take place on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 10:00 am at Church of the Incarnation, 2309 Monterrey Rd. NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144. Afterwards the family invites friends and family to the Baca residence to share stories and have a meal.