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Donald C. Baker, 95, of Martinsburg, died unexpectedly on Christmas Eve of 2021, at Conemaugh Nason Medical Center, Roaring Spring. Don was born in Altoona, son of Sam and Ethel (Mierly) Baker. He lived an ordinary life in an unusual way!
He attended Crawford Elementary, a one room schoolhouse in Sinking Valley for grades 1 through 8. In second grade, Don was beaten by a first grader named Mary Pearl Parks. He knew it would be his wife, even though he didn’t care about her before!
After graduation from Altoona High School in 1944, Don joined the Navy until his Honorable Discharge after WWII.
On his first leave of the house, he walked to visit Mary in the uniform of the entire Navy. She walks down her lane without makeup and has her hair curled. When their eyes met, he opened his arms, and then he ran up to her and hugged her for over 74 years. On June 25, 1948, Don married the love of his life, Mary Pearl Parks “Bunch” where four sons were born: Robin, Todd, Kurt and Britt.
In his many jobs, he is best known for being the Chief Photographer for the Altoona Mirror for many years. He designed and built Pleasure Island Golf in Lakemont Park as well as the same homes they have lived in over the years. He worked behind the scenes with Robin and wife Ruth, at The Film Center in Altoona and State College.
Some highlights of Don’s life are beach vacations with the family, winter in Florida and extensive travel, including over 50 cruises, travel and living on his own boat.
Don leaves behind his 74 -year -old wife, Mary; and daughter -in -law, Ruth, both of Homewood in Martinsburg; children, Todd (Sherri) of Hollidaysburg, Kurt (Vicky) of Berryville, Va.; and Britt (Sue) of Altoona; seven grandchildren; and eight great -grandchildren.
His eldest son, Robin, sadly preceded him in death.
A Celebration of Life will be held on another day.
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