He was born June 21, 1939, the son of the late Harry and Lorena Baker. John is survived by his wife, Blanche Gress Baker. They were married Valentine’s Day 2009. A loving wife, best friend, and blessed caregiver, Blanche made a home filled with love and family for this confirmed bachelor.
John is also survived by his 4 step-children, Debra Finton, Allen (Teresa) Gress, Steven (Merrily) Gress, Kenneth (Kim) Gress all of Coshocton, Ohio and one brother William (Yvonne) Baker of Columbus, Ohio. He is survived by several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren and their families.
He was proceeded in death by his brother, Roger Baker, his sister, Elizabeth Devereaux and his step-son-in-law, Paul Finton Jr.
John was a graduate of Belpre High School Class of 1957. He attended The Ohio State University and served our country in the United States Army.
A Belpre civic minded man, John belonged to many local organizations over the years. He was a businessman at heart with many innovative ideas. He was a partner and owner of several local business, his last being Ohio Valley Press.
Over the many years in Belpre, John got to know a lot of people; some became more than friends and he was happy to call them family. Special thanks to Dena Watson & Family and Judy Sprouse for the years of love and friendship to both John and Blanche Baker.
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home is serving the family.
In lieu of flowers, John would like donations made in his memory to the following organizations: Belpre Safety Town, 747 Covey Ct., Belpre, Ohio 45714, Memo: John Baker or to the Belpre Lions Club, P.O. Box 164, Belpre, Ohio 45714, Memo: Baker Memorial.
An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paisleyfh.com.
