William Terence Baker

1943 - 2013

William Terence Baker

May 11, 1943

Oct. 9, 2013

Bill Baker (Bakes) passed away on October 9, 2013 at age 70. He died at his home in Reno, NV in the loving care of his wife, daughters and granddaughters after a courageous fight with cancer. Bill was born May 11, 1943, in Austin, TX to Herschel Clay Baker and Barbara Ann Morris Baker, and grew up in Boston, MA with two sisters. He attended Harvard University and spent his 20s traveling the U.S. and Europe, working odd jobs and sorting his wild oats. In 1970 Bill married the love of his life, Carol Sue Casaday. Together they raised three daughters, living in North Lake Tahoe until 1986, when they moved to Reno. Bill was well-liked and respected in the gaming industry for over 45 years and built many lifelong friendships before retiring in 2011. Bill loved music, books, dogs and children, playing his guitar and good times. His remarkable intellect, sense of humor and loyalty were admirable, but his generosity and integrity were renowned. Mostly, Bill was just a great guy that you wanted to spend time with and hang around. He will be so very missed by all who were fortunate enough to have him in our lives. Shortly before his death Bill told his family he believed, "Living a good life is its own reward." Bill Baker lived a good life.

Bill is survived by his wife of 43 years, Carol Casaday Baker in Reno, daughters Sauret Casada in Garberville, CA, Molly Baker in Seattle, WA, and Amy Baker in Reno, granddaughters Hana Farley in Santa Cruz, CA, Casaday Baker in Reno, and sisters Ann (and husband Jon) Reed in Walker Valley, NY, and Pamela (and husband Steven) Rearden in Herndon, VA, as well as his loyal companion and best friend "Whippy."

The Baker Family thanks all Bill's loved ones for their caring and support, but especially Ann and Teri Sue and his oldest and dearest friends, Danny & Judy Leshner, Chris & Willy Free, Dick Armocido, John O'Looney, John Anagnostou, Julius Mastro, Bob Collins, Jeff Schmitt, Chad Fulkerson, Tony & Charlie Calogerro, Dale & Jean Nordby, and Max Decaminada. Love and appreciation to John & Linda Rose, Jane & Ron Wardlaw, and Linda & Jim Krantz, among many others. Your friendship is cherished.

Bill requested that there be no formal service. Please share your memories and condolences on Bill's memorial page at www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com. Donations in Bill Baker's honor are being accepted by Shakespeare Animal Fund: POB 8201 Reno, NV 89507 www.ShakespeareAnimalFund.org