NORWICH – John W. Baker, 82, of Norwich and well known businessman, passed away Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 24, 2010 in the New York State Veterans’ Home of Oxford.
John was born in Jan. of 1928 in Weedsport the son of John W. and Gertrude Traver Baker. He grew up in the Weedsport area where he attended the local schools and continued his education by attending Rutgers. In June of 1945 he entered the United States Army serving his country until his honorable discharge in April of 1947. Returning home from the military he went to work for his brother, Howard Baker, as a mechanic. John eventually decided to venture out on his own and owned and operated C-Baker Chevrolet in Waterville. In 1965 John and his wife Joyce came to Norwich and opened South Broad Gulf which was located on the corner of South Broad St. and Eaton Ave. As NBT decided to grow and purchased the property John moved his garage to Hawley’s Corners area where he operated until his retirement in 2002.
Not a man to sit idle, John had also worked for Congressmen Bohlert for over 20 years, was a former Town of Norwich Councilman, a member of the Republican committee and was a former members of the Norwich Lions Club, the BPOE #1222 and the Norwich Moose Lodge. He was also a former Boy Scout Leader and enjoyed his bowling, golfing, fishing and playing cards.
On July 4, 1954 in Madison, John married Joyce Newell who survives. Besides his wife Joyce, John is survived by his sons John W. Baker and his wife Dianne of Chadds Ford, Pa., Gregory Baker of Norwich, his grandchildren Timothy Baker and wife Catie, Lindsey and Molly Baker, Ferol Baker and Hannah and Brenna Baker. Also surviving is his aunt Eleanor Hoag, his sister-in-law Betty Heap and several nieces and nephews.
As per John’s request there will be no calling hours and the service will be private with the Rev. Ralph Hinman officiating. Interment will be at a later date in the Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Please consider memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, Leatherstocking Region Office, Suite 2, 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.