John C. Baker, 91, died Thursday, December 28, at the Embrace Hospice House in Myrtle Beach, SC. Mr. Baker was born in Whitinsville, Mass., to the late Cecil and Flora Oppewall Baker.
Mr. Baker was married to G. Helen Oosterman on June 6, 1950, in Whitinsville, Mass., and they were married for 67 years.
Baker worked as a personnel manager at several companies including: Bendix Corporation of South Bend Ind., Clark Equipment in Rockingham, N.C., and Mestek in Westfield, Mass. He was known as a skilled woodworker who could build and fix about everything and did so by paying close attention to detail. Additionally, Baker was known for his love of nature, which included daily walks of several miles.
Mr. Baker was an avid reader, and at home if he was not out in the garage woodworking, he could be found in his favorite chair reading. He was known for his humorous stories he loved to tell family and friends. (Sometimes repeatedly.)
Baker served his county in the United States Army and was awarded a Purple Heart for his service after being severely injured in a battle in the European Theater during World War II.
Mr. Baker served on many church committees wherever he and his family lived, and taught Sunday school for many years.
In 1998, the Bakers were honored with the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service for their many hours spent feeding and helping the homeless of Richmond County. Additionally, the homeless shelter in Rockingham was renamed “The Baker House” due to the many hours the Bakers spent helping the homeless.
Baker is survived by three sons, Russell Baker (Linda), David Baker (Jeri) and Douglas Baker (Doris) along with one daughter, Judy Patterson (Rick). Additionally, Baker is survived by six grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Baker was preceded in death by his wife, G. Helen Baker, and two brothers, Kenneth and Harold.
Visitation will be held Saturday, December 30 from 12:45-1:45 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham, followed by a 2 p.m. service to celebrate the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Baker.
Memorials may be given to Embrace Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, or your local homeless shelter.
Condolences may be made online at www.carterfuneral.net.
