Obituary of Grover C. Baker
ONEONTA -
Grover C. Baker, 80, of Oneonta passed away with grace on January 30th, after a courageous battle with cardiac amyloidosis. Surrounded by his loving family, he embraced serenity after a life well-lived. Born in Hackensack, New Jersey, on May 14, 1943, Grover was a beloved husband, father, brother, and cherished friend.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of 57 years, Linda Baker (Schilling), and his three children: Keith Baker (Barry) of Olivebridge, NY; Kent Baker of Loudonville, NY; and Kimberly Baker (Dennis) of Latham, NY. He is remembered fondly by his sisters, MaryLou Baker of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Mozelle (Roz) Clyburn of Graham North Carolina, and Clarice Dover Baker of Piscataway, New Jersey, along with several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Mary Baker (Mozelle) and Adrian Baker, his sister Thelma Baker, his sister Rosalie Simmons and his brother Addison Reed Mozelle.
Grover graduated from Hackensack High School, Hackensack, New Jersey in 1961 and then served his country during the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged from military service he began a fulfilling career with UPS in New Jersey and married Linda. In 1971 their journey as a family led them and their three children to Oneonta, New York. Grover worked for many years and retired from the Town of Oneonta Highway Department. A man of reinvention, Grover found passion and purpose in real estate. He had the great fortune to work with two amazing agencies owned and run by wonderful people. His work with ERA Wright-Cavanagh and the Benson agency brought him immense joy and fulfillment until his health no longer allowed.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Grover's impact was felt in every interaction. Though he had the physical presence of a fullback, this exterior housed his kind, generous, and gentle nature. His tender side was quite visible in interactions with animals and children. He was particularly fond of dogs and always took on the lead caregiver role for all the family pets. An example is his advocacy for youth as a Little League coach. He demonstrated patience, mentorship, and dedication to every player, irrespective of skill level and always pulled for the underdog. He was humble, genuine, and honest, offering unwavering support to those around him.
In his semi-retired years, Grover embraced travel, relishing annual trips to St. Maarten with his wife as well as treasured family excursions marking milestone birthdays. His family was his cornerstone, and he reveled in every moment spent with them. He was also a familiar face at Mac's barbershop and greatly enjoyed his time spent there with his dear friend and other acquaintances. His family and close circle of friends enriched his life immeasurably and all those close to him were better for knowing him.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the multitude of dedicated caregivers for their extraordinary compassion and care, ensuring Grover's dignity and quality of life until his final day.
Honoring Grover's request, no formal public memorial service will be held. Instead, friends and loved ones are encouraged to commemorate his life in personal moments of reflection and remembrance honoring his legacy of kindness and resilience. Donations in his memory to The American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America on Grover’s behalf are appreciated.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Baker Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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