Richard James Baker

1948-2021

Richard J. Baker “Rocket” 73, passed away Monday December 20, 2021 at home

surrounded by his wife Roxanne and dear friend Bill Martin.

Rick was born in Vallejo, CA on April 13, 1948 to Walter and Mildred Boyd Baker. He

spent most of his childhood playing baseball in Hawaii and San Diego, CA. He

graduated from Hoover High School and accepted a baseball scholarship to University

of San Diego. After an injury Rick decided to pursue an aviation career in the United

States Marine Corp. He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant March 13, 1970 in

Quantico, VA. and began his aviation career as a RIO assigned to VMFA-122 Hawaii.

He then reported to Pensacola FL for pilot training where he received his wings October

13, 1975 and chose to fly F-4s. Rick returned to Pensacola in December of 1978 to

VT-10 as an instructor assigned to train NFO’s in the T-2 and T-39. In June 1981 he left

the USMC and went to work for Northrup as a pilot T-39 contractor. Rick was hired by

Eastern Airlines and began a long and adventurous career as an airline Captain until

retirement.

Rick is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Mildred Baker, stepmother Toni

Baker, brother Michael T. Baker and his beloved companion Wingman.

He is survived by his wife of 14 years Roxanne, Pensacola, FL, son Troy J Baker (Amy)

Michigan, Lani Baker Marcos (Rich) Solana Beach CA, stepson Sean Martin (Shannon)

Beijing China, sisters Marilyn Baker and Carol Savage (Ray) San Diego, CA.

Grandchildren Elijah and Juliana Marcos, sister in law Charlene Baker, nieces Whitney

Baker and Lindsay Amendalore (Tyler) great niece and nephews and Aunt and Uncle

Pat and Glen Lycan.

Rick had an infectious smile and killer mustache. He loved everything baseball, flying,

Hawaiian shirts, Florida Gators and most of all family. He will be greatly missed.

A visitation will be held Tuesday January 4th at Oak Lawn Funeral Home from 4:00 pm -

6:00pm. The Funeral Rite will be held Wednesday January 5th at Little Flower Catholic

Church at 12:30 pm followed by Burial services at NAS Barrancas.