Stephen Joseph Baker

Steve left this earth on November 9th, 2025 in favor of a new adventure.

Steve was born in Everett, Washington on October 7th, 1949, the fourth of Roberta and Joe's five children. He idolized his older siblings, Boyd, Bill and Bonnie, who all made inspiring role models with their intellect, heart, and humor. He was an inquisitive child, developing a life-long love of animals, history and reading. The family moved to Whittier, CA when Steve was 14 years old. While attending Lowell High School, Steve won a national debate competition - something anyone who met him could have easily guessed.

He received his Bachelor's degree in Political Science, and Master's degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University. Upon graduation he worked for the State of California in the Department of Consumer Affairs, where he worked for 30 years. Upon retiring he put his passion for quality education to work by becoming a private post-secondary education consultant. He loved the diverse people and professions he met along the way.

Steve was skilled in the art of variety, picking up many hobbies throughout his life -from kite flying, tennis, skiing, skydiving, photography, and bocce ball, to archiving family history. He was also an avid reader, who could not pass up a bookshop or library, ultimately owning enough books to start his own bookshop.

His passion for thoughtful informed discussions combined with an equal passion for history and politics led him to participate in or lead several discussion groups and book clubs. Out of a deep interest in law and civic responsibility, Steve served as foreman on the Grand Jury of El Dorado County, and participated in several local initiatives, including the opening of the El Dorado Hills public library.

In 1990, Steve's beloved daughter Macey was born. Steve was a patient, loving and devoted father. He made it a priority to show his daughter the world. She eventually moved to London, England, which gave Steve a great excuse to visit her and ignite his passion for exploring Europe.

Though Steve loved travelling the world, he cherished coming home to California. He had found no other place that rivaled the natural beauty of Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, or anywhere along the California coast.

He is survived by his daughter Macey, brother Scott, partner Donna, and several much-loved nieces and nephews. In his new adventure Steve will be joyfully reunited with his parents, his brothers Boyd and Bill, and sister Bonnie, as well as many treasured friends, his childhood dog Taffy, and other pets he loved throughout his life.

We will remember him with every sunset, ocean view, exceptionally delicious salmon filet, wild raspberry, beautiful piece of music, and shooting star. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Sierra Club.