Beloved husband, father and brother. David (Dave) Eugene Baker was born on June 18, 1932 and passed away on the evening of April 5, 2011.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Angie Baker; son Dennis Baker of San Diego; daughter, Denise Baker of Los Angeles; grandson Jason David Baker of San Diego; brothers Bert Baker (Carli); Bill Baker (Shirley); and Robert Wirz. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Mary Demos; Erma Vigna; brother-in-law, Joseph Vigna (Jean); nieces Julie Vigna; Nancy Vigna; also surviving him are many nieces, nephews, family relatives and friends, including his loving and devoted caregiver, Erica Garcia.
His birthplace was Enid, OK and he grew up in Riverside CA where he was a graduate of California Polytechnic High School in Riverside. He served his country in the U.S. Navy in both Guam and Hawaii from 1950 to 1954 and after service was honorably discharged. He was married to his beloved wife, Angie Vigna in Hollister on November 28, 1954.
Dave and Angie made their home in Riverside, where both of their children, Dennis and Denise were born. In 1963, Dave joined the California Highway Patrol and was assigned to the San Bernardino and Riverside counties until his transfer to the Hollister – Gilroy area in 1964. In 1969, Dave was promoted to Sergeant in East Los Angeles, then to Monterey County, and then back to the Gilroy – Hollister area until his retirement in 1986.
He was an amazing servant and helped keep highways safe for many years in each area he patrolled. He was totally dedicated to his work as a sentinel for roads throughout California and a force much missed after his retirement.
Dave was a dedicated family man, father to his children and loving husband who was full of surprises, bearing gifts and loving gestures when you least expected them. He was devoted to his family and friends and was always there to lend a helping hand. He had a twinkle in his eye and a great sense of humor and could be counted on for a good laugh about anything.
Dave was an avid sports enthusiast. He was a fan of football, baseball, basketball, soccer, and any sport activity. His favorite baseball team was the Brooklyn/LA Dodgers. You could always find him in front of the TV cheering on his favorite teams with much enthusiasm.
Dave was a former Elks Lodge member and held the office of Chaplain and also belonged to SIRS. He will be greatly missed by his entire family and many friends he made through the years.
Friends are invited to a mass to be held at Sacred Heart Church 5th & College Streets, Hollister on April 12, 2011, at 11:00 A.M., followed by inurnment at Saint Benedict’s Columbarium 1200 Fairview Rd., Hollister with military honors provided by Hollister Post No. 9242, V.F.W.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association; Hazel Hawkins Hospital,; or the Parkinson’s Institute c/o Grunnagle Ament Nelson Funeral Home 870 San Benito St., Hollister.
Visit: www.grunnagle.com for condolences.
