Gary Baldwin, age 73, died peacefully at home on Friday, Sept. 4. He was born in La Veta, Colo., on June 14, 1942, to Louis and Margaret Baldwin and spent his younger years living in small towns along the railroad lines in Colorado.
Gary made Pagosa Springs his home in 1960. There he met the love of his life, “The Wife,” Jeannie (Juanita) Rivera. They were married Feb. 9, 1974. Combining families together, they raised five children: Gary Dean Baldwin, Chuck Martinez (Jean), Suzanne Martinez Reeves (Larry), Tina Baldwin and Louis Baldwin. Gary’s first love in life was his family and he leaves behind seven grandchildren (Eric, Keith, Nacona, Cory, Adam, Sara and Haley), four great-grandchildren (Aniya, Kylie, Rylan and Trent), and numerous nieces and nephews.
In Pagosa Springs, Gary worked for Vic Poma’s Texaco, San Juan Lumber, Richter Logging, Archuleta County Road and Bridge and, most recently, his firewood business.
Gary’s second love in life was being in the woods. He was an avid hunter, camper, fisherman and golfer. Whether it was in the woods or in town, he combined his love of spending time with family and friends and the outdoors. Gary “never met a stranger,” and counted people from all walks of life as friends.
Gary was proceeded in death by his father, mother and two infant siblings. He is survived by “his vieja,” children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church on Wednesday, Sept. 9. He will be greatly missed by all.
