Harry Baker, Sr.

Harry D. Baker, Sr., of Hartford, Ohio, entered eternal rest at 5:05 PM Wednesday, November 14, 2018, while at home and surrounded by his family, following a period of declining health. He was 72.

Harry was born October 9, 1946, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, a son to Edward P. “Paul” & Dorothy R. (Hazlett) Baker.

Self was forgotten the day that he left his home to defend our country’s freedom when he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He achieved the following decorations: the National Defense Service Medal, and Sharp Shooter with the M-14. He was assigned to the 503rd Administration Company, 3rd Armored Division, while being stationed in Germany. He was honorably discharged from his duties with the rank of Specialist 5.

He was a 1964 graduate of Joseph Badger High School and had furthered his education at Youngstown State University.

He worked for General Motors, Lordstown, Ohio, as a material handler and retired in 2006 after 36 ½ years of service to the company.

His memberships included: United Auto Worker Local #1112, and was proud 30 year member of the North Eastern Ohio Oldsmobile Club.

In his spare time, he was an avid race fan. He followed drag racing, but was especially fond of Sprint Car Racing. He attended most of the sprint series races in Ohio and Eastern Pennsylvania. Perhaps his favorite pastime was working on his 1956 Oldsmobile that he restored and took to many shows and local cruise-ins.

When Harry wasn’t tinkering with his cars, he enjoyed his collection of Lionel Trains and sharing that love with his grandsons. His grandsons, were without a doubt his greatest joys. He cherished every minute with them and tried to keep them well stocked with Matchbox Cars and other things he would get them

Survivors include: his wife, Cheryl (Pavliga) Baker, whom he married August 14, 1971; his children, Danielle Sveda (Jeff), Masury, Ohio, and SSgt Harry D. “David” Baker, Jr. (Deidre), Hartford, Ohio; his grandsons, Jeremy Sveda and Jackson Baker; and his siblings, Ted Baker, North Jackson, Ohio, Terry Baker, Hartford, Judy Smith (Jim), Kinsman, Ohio, and Gary Baker, Orangeville, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by his younger sister, Mary Rose Baker.

A time of gathering to honor Harry’s life will be held on Monday, November 19, 2018, from 5-7 PM in the home of Briceland Funeral Service, 379 State Route 7, SE, Brookfield, Ohio 44403, as well as on Tuesday, November 20, 2018 from 10-11 AM. His celebration continues with a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, also in the funeral home. Military Honors will be recognized and he will be laid to rest in the Hartford Township Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be left for his family at www.bricelandfuneralservice.com

Memorial contributions can be made to the Salvation Army (or) USO, both c/o the funeral home.

Coordination of this tribute for Mr. Baker was presented by Daniel Briceland, Owner & Director. (330-509-3135)