Dr. Lara H. Baker

LARA BAKER
FEBRUARY 16, 1944 - AUGUST 10, 2023
Anchorage - Dr. Lara H. Baker, a devoted family man, esteemed scientist, and active member of the Anchorage Amateur Radio Club, passed away on August 10, 2023, at the age of 79 in Anchorage, AK. Born on February 16, 1944, in Houston, Texas; Lara was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Lara's love for his family knew no bounds. In 1975, he married the love of his life, Alice, and together they created a blended family, with children from each of their previous marriages, that became the center of their world. Lara was always there to support and defend his family, going above and beyond to fulfill their needs. Whether it was filling refrigerators for his children in college, driving long distances to rescue a stranded family member when a car broke down, or providing financial assistance for important milestones like college tuition, damaged engagement rings and down payments on houses, Lara's unwavering commitment to his loved ones was evident to all. His children and Alice have always admired his selflessness, even when they felt they didn't deserve it.
Lara was cautious and suspicious by nature and training, but Lara was a man of loyalty and unwavering support once trust was earned. He possessed a brilliant mind, but never acted superior to anyone else. Lara had a great sense of humor and loved sharing jokes and stories with his family and friends. He had a knack for computer programming and could swiftly identify errors in code, even while enjoying a plate of bacon. He loved pets, and the family has fond memories of the cats and dogs that were always a part of their lives. Lara's involvement with the Anchorage Amateur Radio Club was a testament to his dedication to the amateur radio community. He served as the club's President for a decade, guided negotiations with the State of Alaska to secure a lease for the club's Radio Science and Operations Center and participated in numerous public service events as a key Net Control operator.
Lara's career was marked by remarkable achievements. He held leadership positions at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Softworld, Bedrock, and Galaxy. He was renowned for his expertise in computers. And his work was featured on 60 Minutes. He always worked to celebrate the greatness of our country. No one was more greatly committed to the cause and purpose of this country than Dr Lara Baker. Lara lived a life of service, purpose, accomplishment, and integrity. A friend recently wrote that he had a heart that could not last forever but will forever be a heart that has left a lasting impression. He had high expectations of those around him, but rarely beyond what was possible. If you strived to meet them, the rewards were worth it. Lara earned his PhD from New Mexico State University in 1968, showcasing his commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual pursuits.
Lara is survived by his daughters, Ranae B. Schulte of Missoula, MT, and Deanna B. Davis of Phoenix, AZ; stepsons, James J. LaRotonda Jr. of Snellville, GA, and David W. LaRotonda of Denver, CO; stepdaughters, Lelia A. Warner of Edna, TX, and Judy C. Bailey of Rockwell, TX; daughters-in-law, Carol C. LaRotonda of Albuquerque, NM, and Doli L. LaRotonda of Snellville, GA; son-in-law, Darrell Davis of Phoenix, AZ; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Heide Bishop of Coleville, UT. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Alice, and daughter, Susan Baker Fox.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Anchorage Amateur Radio Club. Donations can be sent to Anchorage Amateur Radio Club, PO Box 190192, Anchorage AK 99519.
Lara will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the Anchorage community. His unwavering support and brilliant mind will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
At the end of the day, we are proud to have been able to call him Dad and Friend. Remember always that we love you.