BAKER – Billy Jack Baker AKA Billy Jack Christopher Elk Boy Baker passed away Oct. 25, 2021 at Centura Health Mercy Hospital in Durango.

Billy Jack was born on Feb. 11, 1978 to Bonnie K. Baker in Durango, CO. He was a member of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. 

Billy Jack had a life changing accident when he was 15 years old. At the time he was attending Ignacio High School. He soon mastered life while being confined to a wheelchair and went on to graduate from Ignacio High School. Billy Jack carried his disability with honor, bravery and determination. He still wanted to maintain his independence and dignity. 

Billy Jack was a member of the Yellow Jacket drumming group in which he took great enjoyment and pride in. He also sponsored and coached a winning softball team. He most enjoyed hunting and fishing. One cannot express the joy he felt while being out in the wilderness, surrounded by nature, all while being in a wheelchair.

Billy Jack is survived by his mother, Bonnie; brothers: Duke and Grant Baker; Uncles: Clifton (Alice) Baker of Ignacio, Myron (Krissy) Baker of Cortez, Christopher A. Baker, Jr. of Las Vegas; Aunts: Carol (Richard) Olguin, Nancy Baker (Mike Sage) of Ignacio, Christine (Roger) Sage of Ignacio; Sister-in-law Malli R. Baker; Nephews: Peyton and Noah Baker; Nieces: Addie and Zuriah Baker; god parents: Eddie and Betty Box, Jr. and many cousins who each meant so much to him always hunting, fishing and riding back roads together.

He is preceded in death by his grandfather and grandmother Christopher and Ester Baker, Sr. and his great grandfather Julian Baker.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Weiss and the rest of the ICU staff. Memorial contributions may be made in Billy Jack’s memory to the Southern Ute Indian Montessori Academy or the Southern Ute Boys and Girls Club.

A rosary was recited on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021 at St Ignatius Catholic Church, with Mass of Christian Burial following. Burial took place after services at La Boca Cemetery.