Obituary of Leonard M. Baker

Warrensburg: Leonard M. Baker, Sr., 88, of Schroon River Rd., passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at home. Born October 2, 1923 in Warrensburg, he was the son of the late Richard and Nellie (Bolton) Baker. He was a lifelong resident of the area. Leonard served with the US Army Air Force as a B24 navigator during World War II. He was called back into service during the Korean conflict as a B26 light bomber navigator in the US Air Force, Eight Bomb Squadron. He flew thirty combat missions and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Service Cross. Leonard, his father and brothers started Richard Baker & Sons Lumber in 1945 in Warrensburg. He managed the company until its closure in 2009. He was an active member of the Northeast Lumberman’s association. Leonard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and leader of the community. He was an assistant Boy Scout master and took much joy in spending time with his family. He was always ready to help others. He served on the Warrensburg Tax Grievance Committee, and provided his services and company equipment in fighting local forest fires. Throughout his life, Leonard enjoyed flying small planes and held a private pilot’s license. He also enjoyed boating, particularly on Brant Lake. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his daughter, Nancy G. Baker and son, John Baker; and his brothers, Francis and Bernard Baker. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Ruth Marie Wilcox Baker of Warrensburg; his sister, Betty Evans of Warrensburg; his children: Leonard M. Baker, Jr. and his wife, Glenda of Ann Arbor, MI; Tom R. Baker and his wife, Sheila of Soquel, CA; Tammy Hightower and her husband, Roger of Warrensburg; his grandchildren: Graham Lewis, Sara Baker, Joshua Baker and Rachael Kimmerly; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Friends may call on Leonard’s family from 12-2 pm, Saturday, April 21st at Alexander-Baker Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg. A funeral service to celebrate his life will follow the visitation at 2 pm with the Rev. Stephen Andrews, Pastor of the Warrensburg First United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Warrensburg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Leonard’s family suggests donations be made to the Richards Library, 36 Elm St, Warrensburg, NY 12885. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book, condolences, and directions.