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Loran Baker Obituary

Loran "Butch" Baker was killed in a shootout in the line of duty, Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013.

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Feb. 28, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Loran Baker

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338 Entries

I didn't know you but I met your mom and sister today and they told me about you. I wanted to thank you for your service to your community. You are deeply missed by your family.

Jenny Wilson

July 18, 2014

It has been over a year, I am still at a loss for words. My prayers to the Baker family.

Ronda

May 19, 2014

Hey "Buddy". Been thinking of you a lot lately. We had sooo much fun during our career. I value your friendship more than ever and appreciate all the parental guidance you gave me over the years. Sure do miss you!!

Rudy Escalante

January 30, 2014

I worked with Butch, his Dad Loran and his Uncle Jerry in downtown Fresno over 30 years ago. A recent high school reunion caused me to search for fellow grads. After the reunion I decided to search elsewhere for old pals in the various places I once lived. I knew Butch when I was 30 and he was 18. He had a maturity that belied his years back then. He was also a good and reliable buddy. I couldn't have imagined at that time that he would have a future law enforcement career but it makes sense. Butch liked people...a lot. I am proud to have known him and I am not at all surprised to learn that he found his special place of service in this world. My condolences to his wife and children. I hope his parents Ginny and Loran see this. Forgive my lack of brevity but I learned of his passing in the last hour.

Danny Jones

October 11, 2013

Aloha
My Brother and Sister
Having lost a son also, I can sense your loss, feel your pain, Butch was part of my family also.
Not having the right words, I'm sure you;ll understand, my silence.
Wishing you both good Health

Gerry Rasmus

July 22, 2013

Not a day goes by where I don't think of Butch and Beth.

a police daughter

June 10, 2013

Kelly I am so sorry for you & your families loss

Rodney

May 21, 2013

Kelly I am so sorry for you & Tour familys loss

Rodney

May 21, 2013

We Will Never forget Loran "Butch" Baker. Rest in peace.

J

May 6, 2013

I met Butch many years ago while as a volunteer with the Santa Cruz Sheriffs Office. He was kind and had that sense of humor that made him special. Thank You for your service to the citizens of Santa Cruz. May you rest in peace and my prayers go out to the family and to all that serve others in any Public Safety agencies.

Carl

April 28, 2013

Families of killed policemen Elizabeth Butler and Loran "Butch" Baker, I express my deepest condolences.
They gave their lives for all of us to live in peace and security.
God will reward their kindness and pride.
Let them paint the country where it will rest.

Cops II police station in Split - Croatia - EU

April 1, 2013

Families of killed policemen Elizabeth Butler and Loran "Butch" Baker, I express my deepest condolences.
They gave their lives for all of us to live in peace and security.
God will reward their kindness and pride.
Let them paint the country where it will rest.

Cops II police station in Split - Croatia - EU

Boško Cagalj

April 1, 2013

It will be one month since two of Santa Cruz' finest left us in the line of duty. My pray today is we will never forget the supreme sacrifice these two wonderful people made so this community we call Santa Cruz could be just a little safer.

We continue to support the men and women in blue and all those in law enforcement doing their job in an often thankless society. No longer will we take for granted the sacrifices you make for public safety. Thank you for all you do.


A Native Santa Cruzan since 1951

March 25, 2013

I review the guest book frequently and can't forget how Kelly is responsible for a big part of Butch's success and life. Her children are who they are because of Butch and Kelly's hard work and love for each other and their family. I pray for their continued healing.

Jim Howes

March 23, 2013

My prayers go out to the family in this painful time. Just know Butch is looking over you and will be in your hearts forever.

Marty Hunter

March 18, 2013

Thank you for your extreme dedication and hard work with the Santa Cruz Police Department and the community. You will be greatly missed.

Lorena

March 13, 2013

Though I never met you, from all the wonderful things that people said how great of a man you were, I feel like I did know you. May you rest in peace and your spirit live on. Prayers for you and your family. Thank you for protecting Santa Cruz! <3

Kayla

March 11, 2013

Please don't turn the page on this tragic story, don't complete the chapter too soon and certainly don't complete the book. Ever. Thank you Butch Baker.

Jim Howes

March 10, 2013

Many years ago, when I lived in a sketchy part of town, I called SCPD fairly often. Officer Baker, you were the one that usually came to help. You were unfailingly friendly and polite. I've always remembered you, and felt that you were, indeed, "Santa Cruz' Finest". Thank You.

Bryn Del Mano

March 10, 2013

So long Butch. It's been years since we met, but you've done outstanding with family and job. May peace be with you and your family always. I'll be seeing you later on I hope. May God bless you all.

Jim Jennings
Watsonville Police Department
Retired 1990

Jim Jennings

March 10, 2013

Thoughts & prayers are with your family. Thank You Butch for protecting Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz Native

March 9, 2013

Goodbye my friend..You touched so many. May your eternal flame shine forever

Tina McCullah

March 8, 2013

Thank you Officer Baker for all you did for our community. Santa Cruz will forever miss you and your leadership. RIP

Debbie Linnell

March 8, 2013

There are no words to describe the heartfelt sympathy that I feel for the loss of Butch and Elizabeth. I am so very sorry for your loss. He will forever be in our hearts.

Arlette Abacherli

March 8, 2013

Thank you Officer Baker . You helped my wife Lisa a few years back. Prayers to you and your family .

Don and Lisa Halog

March 8, 2013

My Prayers and Strength go out to Butch's Family. Blessings~Laurie

Laurie

March 8, 2013

Kate Minott

March 8, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for your service to the community. This is a big loss for everybody, this is a very deep loss for many,many people. May our love and concern for you give you a measure of comfort during this time of mourning and grief. I hope you will find comfort in sweet, precious memories and the concern of your community who love you andButch....

Jackie Reckas

March 8, 2013

I only met Butch a few times, when he was a beat cop in the 80s he and his partner along with other officers used to eat lunch in a place my wife managed.
There was always an unstable homeless and drug situation down there and my wifes safety was a concern.
Butch kept an eye out and assured me that they checked in regularly to see that things were stable and safe for my wife.
They did that so kindly and so well and it meant so much.
Butch was real and sincere and his assurances were so nice and warm.
We are so grateful.
And, so sad .

Rick Rebman

March 8, 2013

My heart goes out to you and your family. It was an honor to care for your children when they were kids. The amazing adults they have become are because of what a terrific father you were.

Janet Volpe

March 7, 2013

GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY ALWAYS, HE WILL ALWAYS BE IN YOUR HEART FOREVER.

SHARON FARIAS

March 7, 2013

I wish I could express the sorrow I feel, just knowing you are bearing a loss so profound, may it comfort you to know that I care please accept my sincere condolences on your loss. May God be with you on this hour of grief.

Martha Anzures

March 7, 2013

my deepest condolences, to the family and friends. may you have peace and never know pain again. All of us in Santa Cruz are in great debt to you. Butch was a true hero. God bless.

Rubi Lowy

March 7, 2013

Condolences to the Baker family. May God bless you always.

Tiffany

March 7, 2013

I did not know Butch however I want to send my sincere condolences to the family and wish that you be well supported while you go through this difficult passage. Sometimes we can't see how we will get through something....just remember you will get through.

E

March 7, 2013

Stephanie Ivanov

March 7, 2013

Our deepest sympathy.

Rocky & Louise Demateo

March 7, 2013

My condolences and prayers for Loran and his family

Leonard Casanares

March 7, 2013

My condolonces to the family
Not only did "Butch" serve and sacrifice so did his family- Thank you

Desiree Johnson

March 7, 2013

Your presence will be missed. My son spoke very highly of you.

Beth Coffey

March 7, 2013

I never met you; but I know you. A friend who worked for the Redwood City Police Department lost his life in the line of duty. Though off duty at the time, he prevented an armed robbery, losing his life in the process but saving that of the clerks and bystanders. Thank you for your services, trying to keep my friends in Santa Cruz safe, and putting yourself in harms way each day.

Scott Crandall

March 7, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the family of this slain hero! I am so very thankful for all that these brave officers sacrifice to keep people safe. May God be with you as you rest in Heaven!

Lisa Nielson

March 7, 2013

Mike Bertone

March 7, 2013

Mahalo Nui Loa for your service and sacrifice. May God bless your family and loved ones always.

David E.

March 7, 2013

TO ALL FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF "BUTCH" MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES...

JOANNE VARGAS

March 7, 2013

my condolences go out to the family. This a heart wrenching tragedy. my prayers go out to you all. God Bless

March 7, 2013

Heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families, friends and coworkers of both Santa Cruz PD Officer Baker he served and protected the Santa Cruz Community with honor. RIP

Elizabeth Holly Scalia

March 7, 2013

My heart breaks at the death of an American hero. My deepest condolences to officer Baker's family and fellow officers.

Patricia Hryhorysak

March 7, 2013

God Bless the families of Loran & Elizabeth. I will miss "Butch at HOT RODS @ the BEACH...... :(

Grant Butcher

March 7, 2013

My heart, soul, thoughts and prayers are with the entire Santa Cruz Police Department members and the families of the fallen detectives....rest in peace, always remembered and NEVER forgotten!

Clayton Boyer

March 7, 2013

Our hearts go out to you and you family. Love, and remembered forever UC Santa Cruz Fire Dept.

March 7, 2013

Dear Baker Family, I worked at the SCPD with Butch and the rest of that "family" until 1996, as the Records and Services Mrg. I never worked in a better place than SCPD. I knew Butch well, as the Vogels are friends (Bev was my matron of honor.) I only left because I remarried and moved to Florida.
Just know that even though it's been a long time since I worked there, I was still heart broken to hear the news. I have been following everyday since. Butch was a great guy, and a wonderful officer. He was a blessing to the department. I hope you can find some solace in knowing that just having him as a son was a gift. He will be missed and loved even though gone from here.
My prayers are with you. Peace,
Nancy Taylor

Nancy Taylor (Thrasher)

March 7, 2013

May you rest in peace my brother in arms in the presence of God's love. My deepest sympathy to your wife, children and family.

Cezar A. Perez

March 7, 2013

We feel blessed to have known Butch and the family. Our prayers are with you, Kelly, Adam, Jillian and Ashley. Thanks to Butch for making Santa Cruz a great place to be.

Stephanie, Rob and Cooper Johnson

March 7, 2013

It was an honor and pleasure to know you and to work with you. Everyday I place my Badge on my chest it will be in memory of you and all of the officer who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

R. Whitley

March 7, 2013

Butch: It was a pleasure to work with you for all these years.

Rus

March 7, 2013

Thank you for serving the community of Santa Cruz. There are no words that can express the pain felt throughout.

Christopher & Meredith Jones

March 7, 2013

Butch, you always loved life and it loved you. Hoora, police academy class 26 Fresno, you were a proud member. May god accept you into his arms. Goodbye my friend...

Bob Madewell

March 6, 2013

Butch, thank you for your friendship and your service. I feel honored to have worked with you and laughed with you. You are an inspiration. I am privileged to stand with my colleagues and honor you tomorrow.

Lydia R

March 6, 2013

Thank you

P & I Argel

March 6, 2013

Mahalo Sgt Baker

E ho'omaha me ka maluhia

March 6, 2013

Thank you for your service to the community. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends.

mike foster

March 6, 2013

My thoughts and prayers go out to Butch's family. Our SF Giants seats are right next to his and it was always enjoyable talking with him. He was such a proud member of the Santa Cruz Police Department. I'll miss seeing him but I know he'll be there in spirit!

Dorothy Lynch

March 6, 2013

Thank you for your service to our community.

Kate Clark

March 6, 2013

Thank you for your service Sgt. Baker. May you rest in peace. You and your loved ones are in my thoughts and prayers.

Sarah

March 6, 2013

Thank you for your service. I'm sorry it has taken a tragedy to remind us of what we take for granted. Officers sacrafice their lives every single day they serve our communities. THANK YOU and may you rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers to the families of the fallen.....may you find strength and courage.

March 6, 2013

Thank you!!!! There are no words to express the sadness is losing you and Detective Butler. Our hearts are with you, your families and SCPD.

Jessica Victorino

March 6, 2013

Rest in peace, Butch. To the Baker family as you grieve the loss of your soul mate, lover, husband, father and friend, my sincere sympathy. May you find strength in the love and suppport from all of us who knew Butch.

Chris

March 6, 2013

Thanks for everything Butch. It was an honor and pleasure to know you. Our deepest condolences to his wife and children. He was a good man.

Chris and Randy Clayton

March 6, 2013

My prayers r with your family. God bless you,but more importantly THANK YOU for protecting all of us.RIP Butch! You will never be forgotten.

lesley

March 6, 2013

I am so very sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the support of friends and family in this time of grief. And may you soon find joy in the wonderful memories you have. May God bless you and help you through this. Prayers and thoughts are wirh you.

March 6, 2013

We'll never forget him.

a neighbor

March 5, 2013

To the whole Baker family, we offer our most heartfelt sympathies and condolences!! The Baker family's lives have woven with our family for almost 40 years. You all are truly special people!! We love you all. Prayers and hugs to all of you as you grieve the loss of Loran "Butch" Baker!!!!

Helen, Kimberly, Mark Beckner

March 5, 2013

RIP Detective Baker, God Bless you and your family...Thank you for your service.

Jon Shearer

March 5, 2013

My deepest condolences to the family of Detective Sergeant Baker. Thank you, Officer Baker, for your many years of excellent service to our community. May you rest in peace.

Deb

March 5, 2013

To the family of Loran Baker

May you find serenity and tranquility in a world you may not always understand. May the pain and the conflict you are now experiencing give you the strength to walk through life facing each new situation with courage and optimism. Always know that there are those whose love and understanding will always be there, even when you feel most alone. May you discover enough goodness in others to believe once again that we may live in a world of peace. May a kind word, a reassuring touch, and a warm smile be yours every day of your life. Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending.

With deep respect and heartfelt sympathy for your loss.

March 5, 2013

I meet Sergeant Baker during a background ivestigation, several years ago. I came away feeling I was his friend and felt like I've known him for may years. I will never forget him.

Jeff Wilcox

March 4, 2013

Fellow Bellarmine Bell class of '79, to have just read what happened to you saddens me and angers me. But as I think of it more, you were what Bellarmine has always called " a man for others", and you gave the ultimate sacrifice in the spirit of that committment. You are a hero. May you rest in peace and love.

Ray Renati

March 4, 2013

Rest in peace Loran.

Carol & John

March 4, 2013

My deepest sympathies. May your family continue life with sincerity and happiness and may this city always honor your sacrifice.

David Shuman

March 4, 2013

I remember seeing Butch in the old AMI hospital ER,seems like he always had a smile.Seeing him always made you feel safer.I am so sorry for your loss.

Janet

March 4, 2013

J F

March 4, 2013

We lost a local hero and wise elder. Officer Baker will always be remembered. We are grateful for all the work he did for our community. Butch is a hero in SC. Rest in Peace, Butch.

Mary

March 4, 2013

Truly a good and honorable man....a hero. We will remember always the ultimate sacrifice he made .

Bonnie Trinchero

March 3, 2013

ps we will keep an eye on Adam my son John and he pretty tight yopur son is a good man you did a great job

JOHN OSBORNE

March 3, 2013

you are one of a kind MR Butch you will be missed by of the Santa cruz hot rodders

john Osborne

March 3, 2013

Kelly, my prayers are with you and your family. We all loved Butch. It was a pleasure to have woked with him for many years.

Diana Putney

March 3, 2013

I am SO sorry for your loss, I'm a native Santa Cruzan and was horrified to watch the news, I no longer live in SC but just wanted to convey that no matter what he will never be forgotten. God Bless, May You Rest in Peace and above all, Thank You, you made the ultimate sacrifice, we will never forget you.

Shona Deveney-Doty

March 3, 2013

There are no words to express the grief I feel for you and your family. I cannot express enough thanks for what you gave your life doing in the name of taking care of the greater good. Blessings to your soul, Blessings to your family. You will never be forgotten by this community.

Gini Gyorkos

March 3, 2013

God's grace to you all....with love, prayers to Adam, Kelly, and the family.

Patti Whitlock

March 3, 2013

Kim McPeak

March 3, 2013

I think when someone is in law enforcement they know what the ultimate sacrifice is and the family hopes it never comes to that. But love of duty and community is so important to that person. This brave man gave his all and being part of the law enforcement family myself I feel pain
and sorrow for his family and I know the community of Santa Cruz will be supportive of his family. I hope that in time there will be peace and comfort for them.

Pam Byington

March 3, 2013

It was with grief and shock that I learned of the death of Butch Baker from an article that appeared in the Medford Mail Tribune. It was Butch who told me me, by phone, that our daughter was murdered in October of 1995. It was he who was sympathetic, kind, and understanding, and, though relatively new at the job, was able to transmit the sincere care and interest that was so necessasry to the family at that terrible time.
So many years have passed, but I will never forget how much he meant to us, and how deeply we feel the loss. To his family, I send my heartfelt condolences and reassurance that Butch will never be forgotten by those who knew him in a time of stress and loss.

Joan Leibman

March 3, 2013

My heart goes out to Butch's immediate family, his fellow officers and all that knew and loved Butch. I am so appreciative of his dedication to the community to keep us safe while putting himself at risk to perform a job that was his passion. We can honor his memory by living each moment from a place of love.

Colleen Sanders

March 3, 2013

Thank you for all you have done for the community, may you RIP.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and co-workers of Sgt.Baker

Sharlene Gianopoulos

March 3, 2013

"Semper Fidus"

March 3, 2013

Our hearts were broken this week when we heard about Butch and Elizabeth. I didn't know Elizabeth but I knew Butch, having met him when I was a brand new A.D.A. and boy, did he help and teach me alot! We spent many hours together, doing ride alongs and preparing for trials. He had a great warmth, sense of fairness and sense of humor. He has helped me alot in my private practice as well, always the helper. I can just picture him now, wearing his shorts in the summer, patrolling Pacific Avenue, talking enthusiastically to passersby while working. I will treasure him. To Butch's family and PD family and friends, so sorry for your loss. RIP my friend.

Nancy Kerrigan

March 2, 2013

My heart breaks hearing about this tragic and senseless loss. I worked at SCPD in the mid 80's and Butch was always a gentlemen and a nice guy. Blessings and prayers to his family and his friends in blue. He's in God's hands where we will all be some day.

Dell Leeman

March 2, 2013

Thank you for protecting our community and keeping us safe May you rest in peace and May the family have comfort in this time of need God Bless

Archibeque Family

March 2, 2013

When my brother Philip called and told me Butch was killed, I experienced a sense of heart break, a sense of harsh ache, that I could have never imagined feeling. As my brother wrote, Butch saved our lives. Unequivocally, and without any sort of hyperbole, he rescued us. That I did not, as an adult, ever thank him for my life and a second chance at family, is something I profoundly regret. He was hero to two little kids. His death is so senseless, and I wish so much that I had known him. Truly, he will forever be a part of my life. I hope his family finds comfort and peace, the way Butch brought, and will innately always bring, comfort and peace to us.

Laura Donney

March 2, 2013

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