Mr. John Baker

Mr. John Baker, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Ogdensburg, NY on February 23, 1927, John was the son of the late Maynard Baker. He was raised and educated in Ogdensburg. A proud veteran, John joined the United States Navy at age 17 and honorably served as a Gunner during World War II until he was wounded. After recovering from his injuries, he met his soon-to-be beautiful wife, the former Madeline T. Velardi. The couple wed on June 25, 1945 and shared 59 years until Madeline’s passing on February 22, 2005. Their love, honesty, commitment, understanding, and traditional family values blessed them with success in their marriage. John’s full time occupation was that of a foundry worker, and he was also employed part-time at local slaughterhouses. He put forth his best efforts and diligence in completing these jobs and he was not afraid of a hard days work. In all aspects of his life, John was generous, kind, and fair, and he gave of himself unconditionally when needed. An independent thinker, he was blessed with a friendly nature and a charming character. He had a talent for fixing televisions, especially those of the bygone era of cathode ray tubes. As the son of a trapper, he innately enjoyed the outdoor activities of hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was of the Catholic faith and attended Historic Old St. John’s Church. John is survived by his daughters and son-in-law, Rosemary Baker of Utica, Florence Baker of Syracuse, Diana Baker, and Kathleen and Jeff Swartfiguer, all of Rome; his sons and daughter-in-law, John Baker of Utica, Rodney and Donna Baker of Deerfield, and Rickey Baker of Utica; and his many loved and adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also had an enduring bond with his numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves his cousins and in-laws. He was predeceased by his brothers with whom he shared a special relationship, Stanley Baker, Robert Baker, and Charles Baker; and several in-laws. John’s family would like to thank Dr. Emile Wassel, the nurses and staff of the Critical Care Unit and the Personnel of the 2nd Floor West at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their dedicated care. And a special thank you to Jessica, who helped care for John as her own family. The family will honor and commemorate John’s life in a private gathering. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday morning at 10:00 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler with military honors. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Committal and Interment will take place graveside in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Mr. John Baker

February 23, 1927 - March 6, 2013