Don E. Baker

Don E. Baker passed away peacefully at his home on May 6, 2015 at the age of 93.  His passing was preceded by that of his beloved wife June and his adopted parents Blair and Mildred Hamel.  He was a devoted father of Donna Baker and dear brother of Ernestine Swart (husband William) and Milly (Bingo) Green.

Don served his country in the Navy during WWII.  He was on the destroyer USS Bennette in the Pacific theater and participated in repelling a number of kamikaze attacks.  Upon returning to the U.S., he was employed by the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company (C & P).  One of his early assignments was to work with Western Electric in Alaska building the DEW (Distance Early Warning) Line.  Upon his return, he was loaned to AT&T to write training manuals about the work he did in Alaska.  He retired from C&P in 1978 and worked as an electrician member of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees Union for 32 years providing technical support for major theatrical productions at a number of venues including Wolf Trap National Center for the Performing Arts.

Don had sports running through his blood.  He played semi-professional baseball and faced teams with legends such as Satchell Page.  However, the sporting love of his life was horse racing.  He was well known at many horse racing venues and he and his pals owned a number of horses together (unfortunately, none of note).  He also loved the Orioles and the Ravens.

In addition to his interest in sports, Don was active in a number of service organizations.  He became a Pilgrim in the Loyal Order of the Moose, the highest level of achievement in that organization.  He also was active with the Free Masons and the American Legion.

Throughout his life, Don appreciated lovely ladies and was never shy about complimenting beauty.  He was the Romeo of his rehab center and the darling of the staff.

He was quite a man!

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the Chapel of the Donaldson Funeral Home, P.A. 313 Talbott Avenue Laurel, Maryland 20707 from 10 until 11am at which time a memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Gilchrist Hospice Care of Howard County.http://gilchristhospice.org/