David C. Baker, 77, of Genoa, Ohio passed away at home, surrounded by the love of his entire family.
David Carl Baker was born on November 9, 1941 to Bonita (Jaisler) and Charles Baker in Lindsey, Ohio. he grew up with 3 brothers and 4 sisters. He attended Fremont Ross High School and graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Fire Protection. During his childhood, and teenage years, he worked on various farms. He served in the U.S. Army from 1960 - 1963. On March 14, 1964 he married the love of his life, Donna Jean Delphous. Together they raised 5 children in Genoa, Ohio.
Dave was an avid race car enthusiast, working as a mechanic for several stock car drivers. He enjoyhed "raciong" all over the United States. His proudest accomplishment was racing in the Daytona 500 in the mid 70's.
Dave and Donna enjoyed many activities together; dancing, square dancing,bowling, camping and fishing. But the thing they enjoyed the most of all was spending time with their family. They worked together to build a new home and enjoyed entertaining many guests over the years. There was always room at their table for "just one more." If the kitchen could talk, oh the stories it would tell..
Dave worked as a sprinkler fitter for Local Union 669. He took great pride in his trade and had a work ethic that was unmatched. He worked all over the country and was a proud union member. He was an amazing provider for his family. He would always be available to chat for many friends, including the friends of his children. His many words of wisdom and generosity touched countless lives.
He was a lifelong member of St. Peters UCC, where he served on church council in various capacities over the years. He was a past member of Genoa Lodge #433 free and accepted Masons, a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite and St. Omar Commandery. He was a past president of the Ottawa Chapter of the Zenobia Shrine.
In his retirement years, he enjoyed being a "Grandpa Taxi" for his grandchildren. He was beyond proud of the successes of his children and grandchildren and loved to "brag" to anyone he met.
He loved watching NASCAR races and football. He was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals. He enjoyed watching Genoa Comets football and was proud to attend every game to cheer on his favorite player, #52, Daniel Baker.
He was an amazing broither, father, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle. He left a legacy of love that will never be forgotten. Breathe easy, Dad. Give Mom a hug from everyone. We will take it from here - Baker Strong.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff in the ICU and Progressive Care Units at St. Charles Hospital and Hospice of Northwest Ohio for the amazing care he received.
The family will be forever grateful to our Memaw (Anna Suhrweier) for her unselfish devotion as a caregiver and companion over the last several years.
David is survived by his children, Deanna (Chuck) Vizi, Dawn Kovac, Dave (Tammy ) Baker, Dan ( Lisa Hensley) Baker; Grandchildren; Nicholas Vizi, Lauren Vizi, Erin (Tobey) Mottmiller, Kyle Kovac, Rachel (Jonathon) Ray, Taylor Baker, Donavon Baker , Shawna Parker, Autumn Hensley, Alyssa Hensley, Daniel J. Baker. Great Grandchildren: Eliana Mottmiller, Andrew, Colton, and Wyatt Ray (and one baby girl on the way) siblings, Barbara Hall, Mary Hicks, and Brenda Dolweck, his special friend Anna Suhrweier , and Faithful Dog, Sparky George. He was preceded in death by his parents, Step Father James Hathaway siblings, Ronald, Larry, Richard, Kathy, Bonnie and his wife, Donna Jean.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 20, 2019 at Eggleston Meinert& Pavley Funeral Home, Millbury Chapel, 1111 Woodville Road from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., where a Masonic Service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, May 21 at 11:00 a.m. . Internment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park, Those wishing an expression of sympathy in David's memory are asked to consider Allen Clay Joint Fire Department , St. Peters UCC Millbury, or Hospice of Northwest Ohio.