Sammie Baker Obituary

Sammie K. Baker

1945 - 2025

Sammie K. Baker, 80, of Santa Maria, California passed away April 19, 2025 at home. Sam was born in 1945 in Electra, Texas and moved to California at a very young age. His family originally came to the state during the Dust Bowl migration in search of work, and ultimately planted deep roots in Santa Maria, where he remained until his passing.

He attended local schools and has maintained close friendships with many of his SMHS classmates. He served on the Reunion Planning Committee for many years.

Sam was a Deputy Sheriff with Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department for 20 years, attaining the rank of Sergeant. During his service some memorable assignments included Explorer Scout Adviser, Reserve Deputy Coordinator, Drill Instructor for the Police Academy, and North County Narcotics Task Force Supervisor. Some of his favorite stories included working undercover during the Isla Vista riots, and his assignment guarding the Queen of England during her visit to Santa Barbara.

Sam supported many local charities, worked with the Red Cross in Louisiana during Hurricane Katrina, and was a proud member of the local Elks Lodge #1538 for 35 years, serving on their Investigative Committee for many of those years. He enjoyed cruises, trips to Las Vegas, feeding his blue jays, and was extremely proud of his 17 varieties of palm trees. He was a lifelong Raider fan, owning a brick at Allegiant Stadium, and more recently a fan of the Vegas Golden Knights. Sam called himself a "wood butcher" when in fact he was a carpenter and master refinisher, as well as an avid antique collector.

Sam is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mona, sisters Fran Harding and Linda Mecham and brother Bob O'Brien; daughter and son-in-law Suzette and Shaughn Wolfcale; son Chris Baker. He was preceded in death by sister Janie Grigg and brother Ray Baker.

He was known as Papa by grandchildren Trevor (Jenn), Taylor (Eric), Zurich and Sammie Kay, and great grandchildren Quinn and Caleb. A multitude of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews were fortunate to have him in their lives.

Sam was husband, Dad, Papa, Zippy, Uncle, Brother and friend, and loved so much by so many.

A private internment and ceremony will be held for family members only.

A Celebration of Life for all friends and relatives will be held at a later date. Those interested in attending that Celebration please email your interest to [email protected] and we will forward information as available.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Santa Maria Times on May 3, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Sammie Baker

Sponsored by Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory.

9 Entries

Alan Griffin

May 8, 2025

My name is Alan Griffin I met Sam in 1966 when I got a job at Churns Furniture we delivered furniture and repaired furniture new and antique furniture. He was a great role model always up for any challenge. He became friends with my dad thru the Elks club my dad would say Sam says hi. I was blessed to have known him and now God is blessed having him in heaven.

Benita(Rite Aid)

May 3, 2025

My condolences to Mona and family
Sam was a customer at the store I worked for
A great guy to talk to especially about the raiders
I enjoyed my conversations with both of them
Thinking of you, Mona doing this difficult time
Hugs and prayers , Benita

Dayna Bennett

May 1, 2025

Sam was a special family friend who treated me like family. His off color sense of humor and boisterous laugh will always be remembered with warmth. Love and peace to Mona, Chris and Suzette.

wesley Maroney

April 29, 2025

I came to North County in early 1979. Sammy was my first North Co. Patrol Sergeant. You could not have asked for a better supervisor. He was a Deputies Sergeant. My family and I, offer prayers and Blessing to the baker family.

Jim and Nancy Shobar

April 29, 2025

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Sam was a good friend and all-around great person. We miss him and may
he rest in peace

Michael Filipponi

April 24, 2025

May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in Peace. Amen (Sammie you had a good ride) everyone that knows you will miss you -

Ray Shute

April 22, 2025

Uncle Sam, I already miss you. Your love for family and friends was second to none. I will never forget the fond memories I was privileged in making with you throughout this lifetime. I will always remember you and share stories of you with friends and family. From the "snipe hunts" as a child, to the family BBQ's. The rest of the family will recall "Uncle Zippy" and other great memories. You will continue to live among all that you encountered in this lifetime. You were a very special person that touched SOO many, including myself. My heart is broken, and I already miss you. I'm excited to know that you are with our lost loved ones, and probably already planning our next nature walk with Uncle Bob as we speak. I love you and I miss you.

Jerry Bennett

April 22, 2025

Sammie started as my boss then became my friend/family. Sammie nicknamed me "Ma" a name I will forever cherish. He was a true friend always ready to lend me a helping hand whenever I asked. He was one of "my Boys" and I will always love and miss him

David Shute

April 22, 2025

Sam Baker was a gifted person who´s love of family and friends goes beyond words. My heart is broken, but knowing he´s with God brings endless happiness to all of us.

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