Gabriel Y Baldenegro

Gabriel Y. Baldenegro Sr. 70, of Eloy, Az. passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024. Gabriel (Gabby) was born May 9, 1953, in Casa Grande, Az. to Enedina and Fernando Baldenegro, Sr.

Gabby enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He cherished gatherings and cookouts with family and friends. He loved spoiling all of his grandchildren in his own special way. Gabby was a leader within his family as well as the community. Everyone that crossed his path respected him and valued his advice. His leadership truly showed throughout the farming community, and his determination paved his success. He worked his way up the ladder at Bruce Church, Inc. where he became a foreman. When the well-known King Ranch took over in Poston, Az., Gabby was appointed as the farm manager. He eventually was able to establish his own farm, and proudly named it G & R (Gabriel & Romelia) Farms. He took pride in his farming career and worked hard for his family. The farming community where Gabby raised his family became home, where he built many lifelong friendships.

His last farming opportunity prior to retirement, Gabby managed Western Sod. As a seasoned farmer he immediately was well respected and offered guidance. He was well known for having an immaculate lawn. Even after retirement Gabby continued to supervise his grandchildren. He taught them how to care for and cut his grass. Not only would he sit outside and watch his grass grow, he would make sure that the grandkids made perfect diagonal lines when they mowed it. And don’t let him catch you walking on his grass.

Gabby was actively involved in 4-H for many years with his children. He taught them how to tend to their animals along with the value of hard work and dedication. He also supported them in all of their hobbies and interests. He enjoyed watching the Arizona Cardinals, Diamondbacks and recently the Phoenix Suns. Gabby was also a very talented musician. He had mastered many instruments (guitar, accordion, saxophone…), and played in a band during his younger days. His amazing, powerful vocals were one of a kind and will forever be missed.

Gabby is survived by the love of his life Romelia, his children Jennifer Olmos and Anthony Baldenegro, fourteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his only sister, Yolanda Gomez.

He is preceded in death by his parents Enedina and Fernando Baldenegro, Sr., his first-born twins, Gabriel Steven (Little Gabby) and Esperanza Leticia Baldenegro, a grandson Joseph Anthony Olmos, a great-granddaughter Lisa Sofia Olmos, and his brothers Fernando Baldenegro, Jr., Wilfred Baldenegro, Daniel Baldenegro and Efren Baldenegro.

Services to honor and remember Gabby will be held on Thursday, May 9th, 2024, beginning with a visitation at 5:00 PM at Valley Chapel in Eloy, Az. The following day, Friday, May 10th 2024, a Rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM followed by Mass at 10:00 AM at St. Helen of the Cross Catholic Church in Eloy, Az. The burial will take place immediately after at Eloy Memorial Park.

Arrangements have been entrusted to J. Warren Funeral Services ~ Valley Chapel.