Walter J. Baker M.D.

Walter J. Baker, M.D., of Robinson Township, passed peacefully at home on January 10th, 2026. His caring and steadfast presence touched so many lives in the Pittsburgh community. He was a devoted family man, a proud physician, a devout Catholic, and an outdoor enthusiast.

Walter was born in Crafton, PA to Sylvester and Gertrude Baker on April 1, 1927. He and his six siblings were active at St. Philips Church and in their community, and helped out at the family business, the Seven Baker Brothers Bakery. As a youth, Walt developed a strong work ethic and deep Catholic values, which he continued to practice and model throughout his 98 years of life.

Walter was both a World War II and Korean War veteran, enlisting in the Navy after graduating from Langley High School in 1945, and then serving in the Air Force during the Korean War. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1950, and Walter then completed two different doctorate degrees: in veterinary medicine from the University of Pennsylvania in 1954, and in medicine from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in 1965. He fulfilled his medical internship at Mercy Hospital and his Ophthalmology residency at the Eye and Ear Hospital of Pittsburgh, and served as an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Baker was a beloved mentor to ophthalmology resident physicians at the Veterans Hospital of Oakland, where he tutored surgical cases to budding physicians for 22 years. He practiced ophthalmology at South Hills Eye Associates of Mt Lebanon for over 30 years, during which he held medical staff appointments at Eye and Ear Hospital of Pittsburgh, St. Clair Memorial Hospital, Canonsburg Hospital, and Ohio Valley General Hospital. Walter was known for his caring and compassion for his patients – both animal and human. Patients sometimes remarked "If Dr Baker was good enough to take care of my dog, then he's the one I want to take care of my eyes!"

Walt married Mary Bernadette Marko on September 5, 1953 at Holy Trinity Church, Robinson Township. His love and devotion to Mary dominated their almost 71 years of marriage. They met at a local soda shop, but soon became inseparable. Together they raised nine children with unwavering commitment to the importance of family in daily life. He would say, "it was hard raising the family, but your mother made it all happen". Dad had a quick wit, a smile, and kind words throughout his life. He loved history and reading, and was unbelievably knowledgeable, with an answer for any question raised. He was always up for the joke of the day, a raised eyebrow in response to dry humor, and a laugh with the family. His face would light up with a welcoming smile when any of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews or nieces were present, making each feel as if they were the most special. Everyone loved Dad, Granddad, Great-Granddad, and Uncle Walt.

Walter was a devoted Catholic who practiced his faith in every aspect of his life. He had a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying the Rosary with family members each day. Everyone knew not to call between 9:30pm and 10pm: Mom and Dad were not going to answer during the EWTN rosary. He served as one of the first four Eucharistic Ministers at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and continued this for 44 years, was an instrumental supporter of Holy Trinity Catholic School, participated on multiple committees for school expansion and improvements, and was actively involved in the annual Holy Trinity Festival. He was a leader in community organizations including serving as past-president of Robinson Township Lions Club, member of the American Legion, supporter of the St. Vincent DePaul Society for the Poor, and member of multiple medical organizations.

Walt was an avid gardener-a family of nine children needed lots of vegetables! He loved growing crops alongside family, teaching every step of the way, passing on his knowledge of gardening and grafting fruit trees. The Steelers also held a special place in Dad's heart. As a season ticket holder since 1969, he regularly attended home games until recently. Dad would not leave until the clock showed triple zeros! He saw Franco's "Immaculate Reception" and enjoyed traveling to Super Bowl victories. Dad and Mom shared a passion for sports, watching any and all sporting events, side by side. They also loved traveling together, with Florida a favorite destination.

Walter is preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary, his parents Gertrude and Sylvester Baker, his siblings Virginia Smith, Mary Louise Karns, Michael Baker, Sylvia Clark, Sylvester Baker, and Ronald Baker. He is survived by his children Marybeth McCutcheon (Jake), Theressa Strong (Rick), Walter Baker (Michelle), Karen Lauer (Harrison), Susie Shipley (Neal), Lori Roberts (Michael), Elizabeth Moshier (Mike), Brad Baker (Marielle), and Anne Wible (Russ). He is also survived by 31 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 6:00-8:30 PM and Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 2:00- 4:00 PM and 6:00-8:30 PM at Pittsburgh Cremation And Funeral Care, 5405 Steubenville Pike, Robinson Township, PA 15136.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM, at Archangel Gabriel Parish- Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 5718 Steubenville Pike, Robinson Township. Burial will follow at Holy Souls Cemetery, Robinson Township.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Archangel Gabriel Parish Food Pantry, 5718 Steubenville Pike, McKees Rocks, PA 15136.