Colonel Thomas William Baker

Thomas W. Baker, of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born on September 13, 1942, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, the son of the late Anne E. O’Donnell and William J. Baker.

Thomas graduated from South Hadley High School in South Hadley, Massachusetts, in 1962. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Nebraska in 1971 and his Master’s degree in Public Administration from Shippensburg University in 1988. He later graduated from the U.S. Army War College, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning, leadership, and public service.

Tom began his distinguished career by enlisting in the United States Army as a private, attended Officer Candidate School, and faithfully served his country for 29 years, rising through the ranks to Colonel through hard work, integrity, and dedication. He received five Bronze Star Medals for his actions in combat during the Vietnam War. He also earned the Army Superior Unit Award (unit citation), National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal. He concluded his career as Commander of Defense Distribution Region East (DDRE), a position of great pride to him and his family.

Tom’s life was defined by devotion to family, country, and Boston sports. He’ll be remembered for his unique sense of humor and sarcasm.

He is survived by his loving companion and best friend, Carie Senic; his devoted lifelong friend, Judi Baker; his daughter Samantha and husband Colton; his sons Shawn and Thomas Jr.; grandchildren Jordan, Thomas, Will, Denali, Aurora, and Bowie; great-grandchildren William and Morgan; his brother Bill and wife Elaine; sister Anne. Tom was preceded in death by his mother Anne, his father Stanley, his brother John, his nephew Billy, and his beloved English Bulldogs Clancy and Bailey.

A public visitation will start at 11am on Thursday, March 5th, 2026, at Parthemore Funeral Home, 1303 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania 17070, followed by a memorial service to honor Tom’s life. Burial will take place with military funeral honors at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at 2:30.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central PA, 1320 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or online at www.hospiceofcentralpa.org.