Robert Baker

1936 - 2014

Robert Louis Baker, 78, of Friendswood passed away suddenly on December 22, 2014 in Plano following a massive heart attack while visiting relatives.

Born December 13, 1936 in Taylor to Howard O. "Pat" Baker and Rosalie Melasky Baker, Bob graduated from Taylor High School in 1955. He served in the U.S. Army and graduated in 1964 from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in math. In college, he met Grace while both worked at the state mental hospital. They married in 1964 in Austin, and moved to Friendswood in 1967.

Specializing in control systems, Bob spent his career as a computer programmer working in the Houston area at General Electric, TRW, Ferranti International and Triconex.

He was an active member at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, serving on the vestry as senior and junior warden, and with the Brotherhood of St. Andrew. He could be seen changing the air conditioning filters, organizing a poker fund-raiser, or years ago mowing the church lawn and making pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. He was a youth group sponsor and active in the early Cursillo movement. In Friendswood, Bob was a reliable Community Prayer Breakfast volunteer and attendee, and also was involved with Meals on Wheels. In the 1970's, Bob and Grace enjoyed square dancing.

Bob loved retirement, often saying how much he liked getting up late, not doing much and compensating for it by quitting early. He had a green thumb and could be seen driving his 1988 red Toyota pickup to the nursery, and to weekly bridge and poker games. He was a conflicted Astros fan and a lifelong Longhorn fan.

Going out to eat was a frequent pastime for Bob. He saved his cholesterol points for Saturday morning breakfasts and never deviated from a strongly held opinion that Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor is still the world's best. He also enjoyed planning itineraries and traveling, especially going on 20 plus cruises with friends Joan and Jerry Gilson of Kansas City.

Bob was a true liberal, open-minded about other positions, accepting and quick to respect others. He was considerate, wise and believed in leaving things better than you found them. Bob was a role model for what it means to be a real man: a great soul mate to his wife, much-loved grandpa and a wonderful parent to his children and adopted daughter Laura Borda and husband Guillermo of Malibu, CA and their sons Julian and Sebastian.

His legacy is one of humility, humor, reliability and authenticity.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother David.

Bob is survived by his wife of 50 years, Grace Newell Baker; daughter Leah Jones and husband Sid of Friendswood; son Aaron Baker and wife Lori of Plano, and four grandchildren: Elizabeth Baker, Kyle Jones, Catherine Baker and David Jones. He also leaves a brother, Howard and wife Vanette of Round Rock, and many beloved nephews, niece and cousins.

The Rev. Geoffrey Gwynne will lead a memorial service on Friday, January 2, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 1207 W. Winding Way in Friendswood. Innichment will take place at a later date; meanwhile, memorial donations to the church columbarium project would be appreciated instead of flowers.

Condolences may be sent to the Baker family in care of Jeter Memorial Funeral Home at www.jeterfuneralhome.com