Roy "Brother" Baker

Roy was born in Denver, Colorado, on August 13, 1927, to Earl W. and Anna Marie Baker, née Libsack. Roy was also known as “Brother” or “Smokey” to his family and friends.

Brother grew up in the “Swansea” neighborhood of Denver and attended Denver Public Schools. Drafted into the Army at eighteen, he completed boot camp in Killeen, Texas. He served a short time in Texas before being honorably discharged at the end of WWII. Returning to Colorado, he worked various jobs at Swift and Company. He became a landscaper for Denver Parks and Recreation and worked there until retiring.

He liked sports and followed the Colorado Rockies and Denver Broncos. During his life, Brother enjoyed bowling, nine-ball, horseshoes, and softball. He was a pitcher for a softball team. Rumor has it that when he pitched, the ball would smoke the batter. So they nicknamed him “Smokey”. Brother also liked working on his pickup truck and always kept it in top running condition.

He enjoyed time with family and friends. The “Baker Family Picnic” was an annual gathering for family and fun. He was always very close to his sister Sissy and her family. He bowled with Andy on the Kelley’s Bar and Grill bowling team. Dan remembers, “Brother was a constant presence in his life.” Shar cared for Brother as he aged, and helped him in so many ways. He was also close to the children of his sisters Frankie and Hazel. Brother always looked forward to his visits and outings with Darlene and Duane. Rick recalls, “Brother was always there for me,” and “he taught them how to play softball.” Lunch at the Olive Garden with Mickey and Ann was always a highlight. Brother never married but was blessed with the close friendship of Esther in his earlier years, and Ilse later in his life. Brother was often described as a “character”. He was funny, outspoken, cheerful, and always glad to hear from you, to visit or discuss the latest Rockies game.

Brother was preceded in death by his parents and fourteen siblings. At one time, Brother had forty-two nieces and nephews, some of whom also preceded him in death. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and close family friends.