Contributions to the tribute of James Hughmiller "Hugh" Baker

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Monday, October 16, 2023

I wish to pay tribute to a dear friend and colleague of mine, “Hugh” Baker. Hugh would forgive me for beginning this tribute on a serious note. The indelible memory Hugh has left me with is his unconditional and compassionate concern for my then four year old son. The year was 1980 and I had just begun what would be an almost 20 year career in the engineering department at “The Foundry“. I was almost immediately drawn to this jovial gentleman in the newsboy cap and the infectious laugh. Hugh would frequently, and sincerely, inquire on the well-being of my young four year old son. I never really understood why he would show so much concern for a stranger. That was just his nature. Underneath that jovial spirit and joking personality was a sincerely kind and considerate man. Tori-Adora don’t spit on the floor-a; use the cuspidor-a, that is what it’s for-a! Do you like that better than singing, Rudy? You should’ve been on stage, Rudy; there’s one leaving in a few hours! (uproarious laughter) When visiting Hugh in his office, I was impressed how he could study for hours on end over a customers documentation (mill list). These, sometimes 2 to 3 inch thick file folders contained the complete history of a particular customer. I soon learned that embedded behind that opened folder was a current dog track program! Hugh could not only tell you where the dog had run, at what Kennel it was from but who it’s owner was! Hugh could pick ‘em! What do the Germans call a brassiere? “Holtzum-From-Floppin” In all seriousness, Hugh was the “go to guy“ when it came to the repair of a customers machine. He could, almost from memory, quote you the repair parts, procedure and correct documentation to supply. Hugh loved to use Ten series code. Not every day, but most every day, I would phone the local time of day service only to forward it to his phone. Knowing he would pick up on the first ring I would time forwarding the message so that the first thing he heard was “the time is 10:36. A resounding “Thank you, Rudy Clyde“ would come resounding down the hallways! How do the French say cut the grass? Mow d’Lawn! How do the Spanish say mow the lawn? Cut de graz! I recall with clarity the look on Hugh’s face as he beamed with pride when I told him my son was now Airman John Sanders, having graduated basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base. Again, it’s difficult to understand how a person can show so much concern for a complete stranger. That was the thoughtful and complete man you found in Hugh Baker. While I never knew Hugh on a personal level; I do know he was dedicated to and loved his beloved “Penny”. Some people plan their retirement saying they will retire at a certain age. Hugh had his retirement calculated to the hour! I recall with fondness his retirement dinner at The Foundry. “It’s 10:30, Rudy. I’m out of here!“ God purposely places particular people in our paths. I pay the ultimate tribute to my brother Hugh in saying that I am a better person having known him. Roll Tide and enjoy the flyover, Airman!

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Therese Dominick posted a condolence

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Mrs Baker and family Sending love and prayers and very late condolences, from Regis Schoedel and family Regis served in Germany with Hugh and came across a letter from him todsy from several years back and was reminiscing of their antics so I looked up your husband and found his obituary! We are sorry to hear! Regis was very sad to hear and wanted me to send condolences Love and prayers Regis Schoedel, Library Pa Therese Schoedel Dominick

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Daphne posted a condolence

Thursday, March 1, 2018

Good day. To the family, I’m sorry for your loss. Many millions of people who are dead in the grave will return to life on earth. Jehovah God made hope for the dead possible by sending his son Jesus Christ to die for us. So the resurrection tells us about Jehovah’s love and undeserved kindness. John 3:16, Romans 6:23. Please visit jw.org for comforting information on the condition of the dead and what hope there is for the dead. If you have questions and/or concerns please feel free to contact me at 7857 Wuthering Heights Lane, Duncanville, AL 35456.

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Marty posted a condolence

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss. May the words of our loving heavenly Father bring your family comfort and strength during this most difficult time as He promises to bring our loved ones back to life in a perfect world where there will be no more suffering or death (John 5:28-29 & Revelation 21:4).