Loris Baker

Loris (Sam ) Baker Nov. 12, 1930 to June 5, 2007 Surrounded by his daughters, Sam passed away after long battle with diabetes. Although born in San Francisco, Sam grew up in Tacoma attending Lowell Elementary, Mason Junior High and finally Stadium High School where his athletic skills would lay the foundation for his future. In his senior year, his family moved to Corvallis, Oregon where his father accepted a job with Oregon State University. Sam graduated from Corvallis High where he had met his future wife, Sarah, and they both attended OSU. Oregon is where Sam's football career really took off. He enjoyed a number of honors for his athletic talents and was also noticed by the pros. After graduating from OSU he played briefly for the Montreal Alouettes before joining the Army. Sam was stationed in Monterey where he and Sarah started their family of four daughters, Linda, Lori, Leslie, and Lisa. Football was the driving force for the next 16 years where Sam played for the, Washington Redskins, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Eagles. After retiring from football Sam and Sarah moved their family back to their home in Fircrest where they spent the remaining years of their life. To say Sam Baker was one-of-a-kind, seems a bit of an understatement, but to those of us who loved him it is what describes him best and his passing leaves a void in our lives. At Sam's request, there will be no formal service. Friends can pay respects at Gaffney Funeral Home, 1002 South Yakima, Tacoma, on Saturday June, 9 at 10-11am. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneral home.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home 253-572-6003.