Mr. Richard L. "Dick" Baker

Mr. Richard L. “Dick” Baker, age 76, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at The Abraham House with his family by his side. Born in Seneca Falls, NY on December 9, 1938, Richard was the son of the late James and Mildred (Karlson) Baker. He was a graduate of Romulus High School and subsequently attended a trade school in Utica where he trained in electronics and graduated with high honors. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1963-1969 during the Vietnam Era serving in Panama. On November 21, 1970 he married the former Gail D. Holmes with whom he shared 36 years; mutual love and respect was the key to their successful marriage. They often said to each other, “I love you for Never and Never”, a family joke that was endearing to each of them. His beloved Gail passed away on April 23, 2007. Dick was hired at Mohawk Data Sciences Corporation (MDS) where he worked for 10 years. With his great sense of engineering he designed and put into use “The Baker Box”, this was one of the first telephone modems, which in reality was an internet connection. He was honored to accept a position with Cougar Systems with founder George Cougar, a very enjoyable time in his career. He eventually established his own company, Class Computers, a business that specialized in developing software for large companies. He was very proud to have employed 32 people at one time. Dick had a passion for his work and for his family and he felt fortunate that his life was filled with love, humor, and creativity. He enjoyed traveling and visited England on many occasions for both business and recreation. One of his favorite hobbies was Radio Remote Control Race Cars for which he attended worldwide competitions as far away as Singapore. He was also an avid bowler and a member of various teams and leagues along with his late wife. He was fond of boating and taught many kids the art of water skiing. A patriotic and true American, he was a supporter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #1378 in New Hartford and the John A. La Polla VFW Post # 8728 on Wood Lane in Schuyler. He was a firm believer in Christianity which enhanced and guided his life. Dick is survived by his son, Michael Paul Baker of Rome; his daughter, Lisa Gail Cherenzia of Frankfort; his grandchildren, Michael Paul, Jr. and Michele Baker, and his mother Donna Elias, Holly L. Cherenzia-Ferriter and her husband, NY State Trooper Steve Ferriter; Giavannia Tantannia Cherenzia-Cupolo; and his great-grandchildren, Michael Paul Baker III; Abigail, Mason, and Caden. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws; and family friends, Gail Moore and Terry Hanson. Dick was also blessed with the friendship of many wonderful people. He was predeceased by his brothers, Harold J. Baker, and Cornelius Robert “Bobby” Baker; and his in-laws, Patricia Holmes, and Butch Holmes. The family wishes to thank the staffs of Hospice & Palliative Care and the Abraham House who were outstanding in their care of Dick and offered many acts of kindness to his family as well. In gratitude, memorial contributions may be made to the Abraham House in honor of their purpose; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Visitation will be held on Monday evening from 5-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave. Dick’s funeral service and Celebration of Life with military honors will commence at the funeral home at 7:00 with Pastor Sam Luce of Redeemer Church officiating. Interment will take place alongside his wife in Schuyler Cemetery at a future date.

Mr. Richard L. "Dick" Baker

December 9, 1938 - March 26, 2015