Jerome “JJ” James Baca, 72, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026, after a long battle with heart failure, although he had a strong heart.

Jerome was born in Denver, Colorado, to David Manuel Baca and Mary Lucretia Arellano. Born and raised in the Denver metro area, JJ attended Molholm Elementary School in Lakewood and Belmont Junior High before graduating from Jefferson High School in 1972.

After high school, JJ joined the United States Air Force. During his service, he was stationed in Alamogordo, New Mexico; Utica, New York; Alaska; and Hawaii. He was honorably discharged after six years of service.

In 1981, JJ began working for General Motors Service Parts Operations. Although he experienced a few layoffs along the way, his work with General Motors eventually became his career. It was also at GM that he met his wife, Deborah, while she was working there as a temporary summer college employee. They married in 1987.

JJ and Deborah enjoyed traveling together and visiting family and friends across the country. Their travels also took them to Mexico and on brief visits to Canada.

JJ enjoyed watching, listening to, and reading about many sports and always rooted for the home teams, win or lose, including the Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, and Colorado Avalanche.

His love of automobiles showed in many ways. In addition to making them part of his career, JJ enjoyed NASCAR racing, especially Dale Earnhardt Sr., and worked on his own vehicles whenever possible. He had many interests and was always learning.

Jerome is survived by his wife, Deborah; daughter, Utah; sisters Vivienne (Paul) Leyva and Christine (Roy) Reece; sister Beth J. DePinto; brother Robert Baca; sister-in-law Stephanie D. Baca; as well as many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jerome was preceded in death by his father, David; brother, Stephan D. Baca; sister-in-law Leyva; and father-in-law, Rafael “Rafaelito” Leyva.