Danielle Lee Baltz

Danielle Lee Baltz (Gates), age 53, peacefully passed away at her home in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, on Monday, March 17, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. She will be deeply missed as a devoted wife and mother, cherished friend, and passionate educator.

Danielle was born on January 15, 1972, in Grand Island, Nebraska, to Allen and Glenda Joy Gates. She grew up in Lexington, Nebraska, and later moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she graduated from La Cueva High School in 1990. She went on to earn both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the University of New Mexico.

Danielle began her teaching career at Rio Rancho Elementary School, where she touched the lives of so many students. She was known for her creative spirit, organizing annual talent shows, and leading the cheerleading squad. After marrying Brian Baltz on August 2, 2003, in a beautiful ceremony on a Malibu beach, Danielle chose to leave teaching to raise her two daughters, Samantha and Melanie.

She later returned to teaching, bringing her warmth and enthusiasm to Maggie Cordova Elementary and Colinas del Norte Elementary. Outside of the classroom, Danielle was especially known for her love of entertainment and her legendary annual Halloween parties, where she shared her creativity and joy with family and friends.

Danielle was preceded in death by her father, Allen Gates, and her stepmother, Sue Gates. She is survived by her loving husband of 21 years, Brian; her two daughters, Samantha and Melanie; her sister, Sydonia Ramsey (Bradley); her mother, Joy Woodcock (Doug); as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at the Rio Rancho High School Auditorium, 301 Loma Colorado Blvd NE - Rio Rancho, NM 87124. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Danielle's memory be made to the Rio Rancho United Methodist Church, 1652 Abrazo Rd NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.

Danielle's legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to her family, friends, and students will forever be remembered.