It is with sincere thoughts and prayers I just learned of the passing of my special friend, Charley Baker.  Charley was a gentleman's gentleman, filled with the sweetest spirit and integrity.  I have a treasured picture of me sitting on Santa's (Charley) Baker's lap at a Christmas party we had at Horizon High School.  Our loss is definitely heavens gain and I look forward to seeing him in my future.
Jan Schoblaska.

I had the honor of being Charley's neighbor at his and Alice's (and now Lisa and Steve's) summer home in Parks, Arizona for 30+ years. As our friendship grew over time we shared many stories together.  The hours would pass quite pleasantly and sometimes profoundly. I always walked away a richer man for having been in his company. When I learned of his passing  I found myself not so much sad as deeply grateful to have known him. 

There were many notable qualities I discovered about Charley that impressed me over the years. But for the record, I'd like to share --just one-- moment in Charley's past that places my humble friend as a true giant of a man.  Some may not know this about story:

Charley was a tank commander at the height of the Korean war.  During McArthur's invasion at Inchon Bay, Korea, Charley's tank and crew were lowed off a boat into 40ft of water, where divers pointed his tank toward the shore 2 miles away. Charley told me they'd been briefed that the coral over which they'd be driving might cause the tank tracks to skip or slide unevenly. With no compass or method of knowing their direction until they reached the shore (if they reached the shore), estimates were that 40% of the tanks would head out to sea.  If so, at 50ft the tank's snorkel would draw-in sea water and stall the engine. Underwater at some random spot no one would find them. Every man knew they'd be trapped in the tank, unable to open the hatch (due to the pressure) and would face death by suffocation within an hour or two, probably in total darkness. Charley made it to the shore. Many did not. I've always wondered whether I'd have climbed into that tank on that day. Charley did.

I can honestly say that each time I was in Charley's presence, I knew I was in the company of a truly brave and honorable man.

Thank you Charley for your service to your nation, your family, students, church and community. I am -- and will always be--honored to have been your friend.

Alice and family, so sorry to hear this news.  In the 1940’s Whit and family visited his brother Roy near Plainview Tx.  I was very young and Randy or Doug made fun of our irrigation ditches on the farm. 36 in across 18 inches deep. He said their ditches were so big his sister almost drowned in one.  Then at family reunions and Bo and Alice, great couple, great personalities . Once in the 60s you came in a new thunderbird. What a car.  Saw you at many reunions and enjoyed every one of them.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. 
Much Love
Donald Earl Conner and Margaret
(Son of Dorothy and Earl)

Charlie & Alice were the best neighbors we could hope for, living across the street for 30 years! We loved how he decorated at Christmas time, the elaborate nativity scene & lights. We would chat when he would pick up their mail, about Grand Canyon University, sports, and family. His love for Jesus & his amazing character was clearly evident,  he will be missed! Gus & Jen Nopoulos 

Oh, Charley, where should I begin?  Memories of our attending the Same church, sharing family time, singing together and eating potluck dinners are just a few of my cherished memories.  When I think of men who I call my hero’s, you rank among the top.  I remember your smile which seemed to be stationary on your face.  Your humbleness and the tears I’ve seen you cry are marks of a heart that had a personal relationship with Jesus, our Saviour.  Our sons, JJ and Keith respected and loved you.  
Before leaving your home on my last visit, you returned the Trojan statuette I had made for you back in the 70’s. That Trojan figurine is with my son, JJ aka Jimmy Fletcher who attended Paradise Valley School while you were the Athletic Director.  I will miss you but I know you, Alice and me will bring forth the voice of angels as we join in that heavenly choir and, maybe, we can do a trio number again.  Love you, Charley Baker!


From my first ride on a tractor to giving me tips on my favorite sport basketball , charley was always a mentor , friend and  true uncle to me . Love ya uncle Charley , RIP  you will be missed . Jerry B 

At a very low point in my life. Charlie and Alice opened up their house to me even tho they were gone.  He made arrangements with Vern to come and welcome me and showed me great kindness and love. My Dad. A.B. especially loved Charley and Vern due to their shared interest in baseball.   They were more like brothers to Daddy than his own brothers.  Charlie lived his faith in the Lord evidenced by his years of service to the church.  A most special man.

Charley was the AD at Horizon when I entered the profession as a newly-minted teacher and coach (from what was then Grand Canyon College). He had a tremendous influence on me as a young educator and, more importantly, he was one of the most decent, genuine, and selfless individuals with whom I have had the pleasure of working in almost 40 years in education. My sincere condolences to the family.

OBITUARY

Charles L. Baker

Passed away on JUNE 10, 2022

Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens

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