Loving, energetic, creative, protective, prankster
Bobby Barajas, remembered for his loving, kind, and humorous nature, was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need. A sensitive heart coupled with a lively spirit made him a caring and compassionate friend, brother, and father. His passions included making everyone laugh, Milwaukee sports teams, carpentry, and most of all, his daughter Aneia. His siblings Mark and Natalia, as well as his mother Erica, recall Bobby being the life of the party, always at the center of the celebration, making lasting memories with his laughter and love.
Talented hands made Bobby an invaluable teammate and craftsman. He was an exceptional baseball player, normally found on third base or home plate as a catcher. Because he delighted in creating something beautiful from raw ingredients, many homes in the San Antonio, Texas area are adorned with Bobby’s carpentry projects or remodeling skills. When he wasn’t working, he prioritized family above all else. A family trip to Las Vegas was unforgettable, but even when his family was celebrating locally, he never missed a single party, filling the air with stories and energy. In his sister Natalia’s words, “His ability to balance his craft and family time left a lasting impact on all of us.”
Bobby’s innate ability to embrace and nurture his sensitivity and emotions let him see beyond the surface, to show understanding and compassion in dynamic and authentic ways. Bobby stripped off his own shoes and handed them to someone in need without a second thought, counseled struggling peers with dignity and respect, and showed the truest love to his beloved daughter. Giving Aneia a happy life full of love was his top priority, and he dreamed of travel and new experiences to make more memories. Instead, substance use disorder took him off the playing field.
Over time, substance use stole away the kind, funny, hardworking person his family knew. His battles with the disorder took a toll on his outlook and his connection with his family. Loved ones looked on as constant fears of relapses and dread over catastrophic consequences loomed. Natalia states, “We often felt as if we were mourning the person he used to be while he was still here.” Knowing there’s only so much family could do for a person struggling this way brought about feelings of helplessness and worry in such a close-knit family.
In the wake of Bobby’s passing, grief is no longer tied to the worry of losing him little by little, but rather the permanent absence he left behind. Continuing Bobby’s compassionate approach to life and giving, his family continues to share his legacy, determined to break the stigma that surrounds this disorder, so as Natalia says, “Other families might not have to endure the same loss.”
Bobby’s mother and sister, Erica and Natalia Barajas, provided the information for this narrative.
January 16, 1991-February 18, 2022-Age 31
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Jill Denton
