John C Baker

John C. Baker, 91, died Thursday, December 28, at the Embrace Hospice House in Myrtle Beach, SC.  Mr. Baker was born in Whitinsville, MA to the late Cecil and Flora Oppewall Baker.

Mr. Baker was married to G. Helen Oosterman on  June 6, 1950  in Whitinsville MA and they were married for 67 years.

Mr. Baker worked as a personnel manager at several companies including: Bendix Corporation of South Bend IN, Clark Equipment in Rockingham NC, and Mestek in Westfield, MA.

John was known as a skilled woodworker who could build and fix about everything and did so paying close attention to detail. Additionally, Mr. 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.

Mr. Baker was known for his humorous stories he loved to tell family and friends. (Sometimes repeatedly.)

John served his county in the Army and was awarded a Purple Heart for his service after being severely injured in a battle in the European Theater during WW2.

Mr. Baker served on many church committees wherever they lived and taught Sunday School for many years.

In 1998, John, and his wife Helen, were honored with the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service for their many hours spent feeding and helping the homeless of Richmond County NC.  Additionally, the homeless shelter in Rockingham was renamed “The Baker House” due to the many hours the Bakers spent helping the homeless.

John C. Baker is survived by three sons, Russell Baker (Linda), David Baker (Jeri) and Douglas Baker (Doris) along with one daughter, Judy Patterson (Rick).   Additionally Mr. Baker is survived by 6 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Mr.  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 12:45-1:45PM at the Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham, followed by a 2:00PM 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.