Served as superintendent of Lynnfield Center Golf Course for over 68 years
Published in the June 6, 2018 edition
LYNNFIELD — Robert G. Baker, 80, a longtime Lynnfield resident, died at his residence surrounded by his family on Friday, June 1, 2018 on what was the first day of his retirement after serving as the superintendent of the Lynnfield Center Golf Course/Reedy Meadow for just over 68 years.
Born in Lynn on August 25, 1937, he was the son of the late Gordon H. and Frances E. (Churchill) Baker.
Mr. Baker was raised in Lynnfield and was a graduate of Wakefield High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and was honorably discharged in 1960. He was an avid sportsman and hunter, and was a member of both the Minuteman Sportsman Club and the Danvers Fish and Game. Mr. Baker enjoyed yearly hunting trips with friends, traveling to many destinations including Maine and Canada.
An active member of the Lynnfield community, Mr. Baker was a figurehead in town. He was a friend to many and a mentor to dozens of young men taking employment at the golf course during their summers off from school. The golf course was his domain, the pro-shop his sanctuary; he was often found holding court with those finishing up a round of golf. He cherished his role as Superintendent at the Lynnfield Center Golf Course. But above all, he loved his family, especially time spent with his daughter at horse and goat shows, taking his son to hockey, teaching his wife and children the game of golf, and finally time spent watching his grandchildren play sports.
He was the beloved husband of Antoinette M. (Kelly) Baker. He was the loving father of Pamela Baker and her husband Steve Petkevitch of Lynn; Kevin Baker and his wife Christine (Beale) Baker of Newbury; and the late Bobby Baker. He is also survived by his three grandsons: Steven, Nicholas, and Troy Petkevitch.
A graveside service was held at Forest Hill Cemetery, Forest Hill Ave., Lynnfield on Wednesday at 11a.m. Arrangements were in the care of the McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Ave., Wakefield.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, c/o Gastrointestinal Studies, 450 Brookline Ave., Boston, MA 02115.
