Tony Baker was born on April 18, 1930 in Harlan, Kentucky. He served in the United States Army from December 1947 to May 1968. During Tony's 21 year army career he served in combat in the 24th Infantry Division in Korea and in the First Cavalry Division in Vietnam. After his retirement from the army, Tony relocated his family to San Antonio, TX and served as a JROTC instructor at Robert G. Cole High School for 21 years from 1968-1990. Tony helped mentor young cadets for future military service. He was the Rifle Team coach at Cole High School, where he helped develop many skilled marksmen. After he completed two careers, Tony transitioned into semi-retirement, working with exotic wildlife and animals. In addition. Tony volunteered at Brooke Army Medical Center to assist soldiers undergoing rehabilitation to recover from wounds in action in Afghanistan and Iraq.
His favorite job though, was that of Grandpa. He deeply enjoyed that title and cherished the time he spent with his four grandchildren. The impact of Parkinson's disease eventually narrowed his range of actions, resulting in Tony living out his remaining years in a nursing home.
During his life’s journey he was accompanied by his wife Marianna (Evans) Baker to whom he was married for 66 years. Marianna stood by his side in life and she was there when he passed away on January 3, 2021. Tony is survived by his widow Marianna Baker, his two daughters Connie Marie Walker & her husband Mike and Lori Ann McDonald & her husband Brett, and his son Robert Douglas Baker, and four grandchildren Darryl Walker & his wife Lindsay, Rachel Strong & her husband Hunter, Matthew McDonald and Emily McDonald.
Tony will be missed by his friends and family. He touched many lives and will be fondly remembered.
The private/ family only Graveside Service will be 2:30 pm, Thursday, January 21 2021 at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery (Shelter # 3).
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project and/or to the charity of one’s choice.
