Rowena “Rena” Joyce Baca peacefully entered eternal life Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
Born on May 13 in Socorro, N.M., Rena led a remarkable life that touched the hearts of many. As a lifelong member of the San Miguel Parish, she was known for her larger-than-life presence and a heart of gold that welcomed all with open arms.

She and her husband Adolfo successfully ran the Owl Bar and Café, in San Antonio, N.M., turning it into more than just a destination for traveling patrons but into a cozy corner of the family dinner table where guests were embraced as family throughout the years.

In 2018, Rowena and Adolfo were honored by the New Mexico Restaurant Association as Restaurateurs of the Year, commending their exceptional embodiment of entrepreneurship, community service, and exceptional hospitality.

In addition to her prominent role in the restaurant industry, Rowena demonstrated a strong commitment to serving her community by holding positions such as Socorro County Commissioner and County Treasurer. Her dedication extended to serving on several state boards, including the Public Safety Board, where she passionately supported our state police officers.

Rowena also represented her party as a voting delegate at numerous state and national conventions. In her work as a public servant, she generously supported our military, veterans, and first responders.

Rowena was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Odelia Chavez, William Eaton (Paula), her beloved aunts Alice and Bernice, Uncle Morris Miera and her grandson Derek Baca.

She is survived by her long-time love and husband Adolfo Baca, her children: Linda Bunning (John), Janice Argabright (Steven), and Allen Baca (Lorrie), her grandchildren: Maria Lawson (Briant), Frank Bunning, Scott Bunning, Delia Bauer, Aimee Parra (Abran), Matthew Argabright (Elise), and Austin Baca (Shannon), and her great-grandchildren: Kadee Lawson, John T. Bunning, Kailey Bunning, Frank Bunning, Jr., Skyler Bunning, Scotty Bunning, Sienna Bunning, Mia Bauer, Jakob Bauer, Morgan Parra, Maddison Parra, and Aynslei Baca. She is also survived by her brother, Frank N. Chavez (Mary), sisters Sandra Carver (Richard), Carol Rail (Chester), Diane Eaton, many cousins, her Owl family and many dear friends, whom she considered family.
Our family has been deeply touched by the overwhelming display of love and support from people across the state. The heartfelt stories of inspiration, compassion, and joy have meant the world to us during this difficult time.

Services to honor Rowena will take place at San Miguel Parish on Thursday, February 29 Viewing 8:45 a.m., Rosary 9:30 am, Mass 10 a.m. Following the services Rowena will be laid to rest at the San Antonio Cemetery.

A celebration of Rowena’s life will be held March 23 at the Owl Bar and Cafe in San Antonio, 1 to 4 p.m.

Rowena had a profound belief in the importance of serving others, and one of the charities closest to her heart was St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that donations be made to stjude.org in her memory.

El Defensor Chieftain