Brian T. Baker

1964 - 2018

BRIAN T. BAKER, 54 of Enfield, loving husband of Florence Baker, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, June 11, 2018. Brian was born May 31, 1964 in Holyoke MA, the son of Edwin Baker and the late Mary (Varley) Baker of Enfield. Brian attended St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield and was a graduate of Central Connecticut State University, where he received a Bachelor's degree in Social Work. As the Assistant Director of South Park Inn Homeless Shelter in Hartford, Brian dedicated 34 years of his life to serving those in need and implementing new programs to combat homelessness. He was an advocate for Homeless Veterans and a Point of Contact in Connecticut in coordinating the Veterans Outreach Drop-In Center. Brian was actively involved in the City of Hartford, spending countless hours at the Capitol speaking on behalf of the Homeless Population through Political Advocacy. Governor Jodi Rell officially proclaimed March 31, 2010 BRIAN BAKER DAY in the State of Connecticut to recognize his years of dedication. A tireless supporter, he conducted a weekly Outreach Program for workers and volunteers to seek out persons sleeping under bridges in order to supply them with information on programs, provisions, and care packages. Brian worked closely with Dr. Gould of the UCONN School of Medicine in running a Clinic at the shelter for Men, Women & Children, providing critical healthcare and compassionate counseling for a population in great need. In his youth, Brian enjoyed running Cross Country and earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America. He was a faithful and devoted Catholic and member of The Knights of Columbus. Brian actively participated for many years with the V.F.W. HAVOC, The Hartford Elks, AUSA, and the Sons of The American Legion. Kyle, Brian's son, called him, "GREATEST ADVENTURER he'd ever known." An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed sailing, spelunking, and hiking. He travelled extensively and was very proud of his Irish heritage. "SLAINTE!" Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends who he CHERISHED and ADORED. In addition to his wife Flo of 20 years, he leaves two amazing children ILIANA & KYLE BAKER of Enfield, Iliana's husband Steven Murray, and their daughter, Brian's beloved granddaughter, Penelope Murray. He is survived by his five beloved brothers. Patrick & his wife Susan, Steven and his wife Olive, John Baker, Daniel and his wife Patricia, and Michael Baker. In addition to his mother, Brian was predeceased by his infant brother, John Baker, and his uncle, Father John Varley. He was also loved by his father & mother-in-law Richard & Evelyn Harrell, brothers-in-law Jose and Jason, sister-in-law Jocelyn and her husband Nugent Sr., and his nieces and nephews, Katelyn, Patrick, Casey, Amanda, Esther, Asiah, Ania, and Nugent. He also leaves a large extended family including his TREASURED, HIGHLY VALUED and LOVED FAMILY at South Park Inn Shelter. Relatives and friends are welcome to join the family during visiting hours on Monday, June 18, 2018, from 4 pm to 7 pm with Words of Remembrances from 7 pm to 8 pm at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Rd., Enfield. A Mass of Christian Burial for Brian will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at 11 am at St. Patrick's Church, 64 Pearl St., Enfield. Please meet at the church. Burial will follow in St. Patrick's King Street Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Veteran's Outreach Program at the South Park Inn, 75 Main St., Hartford, CT 06106. For online expressions of sympathy or directions please visit www.leetestevens.com