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Obituary for Robert G. Baker
Robert G. Baker Jan. 28, 1927 – Jan. 30, 2010 Robert G. Baker passed away at his home in Brookings on Jan. 30, 2010. He was 83. Robert was born January 28, 1927 in Sarles, ND to John and Mary (Bassingwaite) Baker. He grew up there until moving to Ashland, OR when he was 14. Robert entered the US Navy in 1944 and served two years during WWII on the USS Hershey. He came back to the Rogue Valley after his military service and began working for COPCO. He married Carroll Smith in 1949. That marriage ended in divorce in 1953. Robert worked initially as a grunt and then became a lineman and learned the trade – he was even involved in brining power into Crescent City. His job was also to inspect the lines which, in one instance, entailed him being lowered by helicopter to a downed line near Happy Camp – all in 12 feet of snow. Robert later worked his way up to superintendent of seven different crews for PP&L. He retired after more than forty years of service with an impeccable safety record due to his devoted workers whom he greatly appreciated. Robert married Eleanor Hovin in 1972 in Reno, NV. They made their home in Medford. Robert and Eleanor enjoyed deep-sea fishing trips off the Oregon coast at Brookings, and the California coast at Crescent City, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and virtually anything in the outdoors. During his working years, Robert was active in the Local #659 I.B.E.W including service on its executive board. He was also a member of the NRA. Survivors include his son, Thad Baker Lawrence (Andrea) of Idaho; stepdaughter, Gloria Zadek (Robert) of California, and grandchildren, Chad Lawrence, Robert Lawrence, Alexander Lawrence, Tyler Lawrence and Paul Niehaus (Katrina). Bob is also survived by his siblings John Baker, Harry Baker, Helen Young and Vera Heberlien and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his wife Eleanor and siblings Elaine Rose, Delores Johnson, and Norman Baker. Thad would like to express his thanks to Bob’s friends/caretakers including Lena Campbell, Lynette Tanner, Debbie Woosley, Carrie Gaddis and nephews Keith and David Restad. Their friendship, care and dedication to Bob and his family was rare and exceptional. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association. A memorial service will be held in the summer. Robert will be laid to rest with Eleanor at Memory Gardens Memorial Park in Medford.
