Robert Calvin Baker

Robert Calvin “Bob” Baker, age 80, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024. Born in Asheville, North Carolina in 1943, Bob’s journey took him from North Little Rock, Arkansas, to Houston, Texas, where he graduated from Galena Park High School.

Bob’s passion for music led him to the University of Houston in 1961, where he majored in clarinet performance. His talent as a musician earned him opportunities that few can claim, from playing for the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus to performing with Astroworld’s German band during its inaugural season. Bob was a respected clarinet and saxophone player, often called upon to perform with the Houston Grand Opera and the Houston Symphony. His love for music, particularly the clarinet, was a lifelong passion that never faded.

After college, Bob began his career as the assistant band director at Pasadena High School. He later transitioned into a successful career in sales, thriving in a rapidly changing technological world where his leadership and salesmanship flourished until his retirement.

Though he faced health challenges, including a long medical journey and a shorter battle with progressive dementia, Bob’s unmistakable sense of humor and joyful spirit never waned. Those who knew him cherished his ability to make others laugh, often wondering if the story he was telling was fact or fiction—a part of his enduring charm. His ability to light up a room with a smile and a joke will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bob was a man of deep Christian faith, grounded in a strong belief in the Almighty God. Throughout his life, his trust in God was a source of comfort and strength, sustaining him through difficult times and guiding his relationships with those around him. His faith was a cornerstone of who he was, and he lived each day with grace and gratitude for the blessings he received.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Betty; his brother Jim; his two sons, Stephen and Jon; his daughters-in-law, Amy and Erica; and his seven cherished grandchildren: Victoria, James, William, Jack, Reed, Addy, and Gavin. Bob’s family was the greatest joy of his life, and he will be remembered for his deep love and commitment to them.

He held a special love for his family, but his other passions included a deep interest in watches, a fascination with aviation, a love for the music of Billy Joel and Gustav Mahler, a perfectly cooked rare steak, and fond memories of his 1967 Dodge Charger. Even as dementia began to take pieces of him, Bob’s cherished clarinet remained a constant reminder of his identity and his lifelong love of music.

A memorial service will be held at Southeast Church of Christ, 2400 West Bay Area Blvd. in Friendswood, Texas on September 14th at 2:00pm.