Doris Caroline Baker

We have lost a remarkable lady Wednesday, February 3, 2021 when Doris Baker passed away peacefully in Atlantic Shores after 103 years of life well lived. Doris was born in 1917 in Kalispell, Montana to C. Bradley Baker and Carrie Gorton Baker. Soon the family moved to Bancroft, Michigan where she lived a happy childhood in her great-grandfather’s home, was educated and became a teacher. During this time both her parents passed away. Having no siblings, she decided to travel and explore other cultures.

She was hired to teach in a newly formed American Army Dependents School in Bad Toelz, Germany where there was a desperate need for teachers. Members of the Special Forces were being assigned to that area and needed homes and good schools for their families.

According to the Department of Defense Education, she led efforts to deliver a high quality school program in a remote location and under unique circumstances. He tireless efforts, dedication and concern helped the military’s efforts during the post WWII period as she developed a trusted relationship with members of the Special Forces through her support for their dependents.

During her 39 years in Germany Doris lived her dream life, becoming a world traveler, visiting countless countries, many of which were not ventured into by many tourist at that time. But being a fearless woman, she loved observing different cultures and took a multitude of beautiful photographs of her travels. Doris had many interest and talents. She was a published author of books and poetry as well as a talented painter and photographer whose artwork has been exhibited.

These Special Forces, their families and her teachers formed a very close-knit group, supporting each other far from home. Since their retirement, they have kept in touch with Doris and each other throughout the years with visits when possible, phone call and cards. She became close friends with one of her teachers, Evelyn Themides, while in Bad Toelz. Doris retired and moved to Williamsburg with Evelyn living nearby. Later they each moved to Virginia Beach to be closer to the Themides family who adopted her as one of theirs and whose lives she enriched. She was active here with her poetry group and her many friends. She took Evelyn into her own home and took care of her friend the last year of her life.

After Evelyn passed away, Doris wasted no time in moving to Atlantic Shores which provided her with a good quality of life. When necessary, she moved to Harbourway where she received the special care needed from many dedicated people.

In 2014 Doris received a highlight of her life when she was recognized by the Green Berets who bestowed on her the title of Honorary Member of the Special Forces Regiment during a lovely ceremony in her honor, for her contributions in Bad Toelz. She was thrilled beyond words and loved wearing the Green Beret necklace she was given.

Due to Covid restrictions, there will be no service. Smith and Williams is handling her cremation, at her request, and her ashes will be placed with her parents’ graves in Bancroft, Michigan. Doris is survived by Carolyn Themides, Dr. Themis Pangalos, the Themides family and foster daughter Kwai Sin as well her many dear friends, near and far.

Doris wished to be remembered as one who floated on the Dead Sea, kissed the Blarney Stone, almost lost her car to the rising tides around S.t Michel, and explained Andrew Wyeth’s paintings to a friend, not knowing the artist was behind her. She felt she led a lucky life and that curiosity and an adventurous spirit can lead to a lot of fun.

She will be missed.