Earl Andrew Baker May 17, 1928 - January 11, 2025

Earl A. Baker was born 5-17-1928 in Wynona, OK to Dicy and Walter Baker. In 1937 his parents sought greener pastures and headed for California. They soon discovered many people were returning from California, so they decided to settle in OKC. Earl graduated from Central High School in 1946. As World War II was nearing an end; he enlisted in the Army. After basic training, where he received an expert medal on the rifle range, he was shipped to Pusan, South Korean then to Seoul, where he served for a year in the Engineers. During his tour of duty, he earned the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal. After discharge, he attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated in 1952 with a BBA degree. While there he also earned a commission in the Air Force ROTC presented by then general Dwight Eisenhower at Lowry Air Force Base at Denver, Colorado. Upon graduation from college, Earl formed the Earl Baker Insurance Agency serving the community for over 30 years, specializing in Auto, Home, and Business insurance which he pursued until retirement. Earl had a deep passion for sports that spanned multiple arenas, including bowling, tennis, golf and skiing. He won several bowling tournaments including the open division of the Southwest All Events Championship in Wichita. In golf he carried a single digit handicap and received a trophy for the first hole in one at Quail Creek CC. He was an avid snow skier, still skiing at 80! Later in life, he and Earline got involved in tennis. Earl was one of the top players in the region in his age group for over 20 years, winning the Men’s 60 single’s event at the Missouri Valley Championship. He was also elected as president of the Oklahoma City Tennis Association. Earl’s love for music was singing and playing the guitar. He formed the Sundown Bluegrass Band and was President of the Greater Oklahoma City Bluegrass Club. His dedication to his hobbies wasn’t just about winning trophies (though he sure collected a few of those!), it was about his passion, his commitment, and his joy in living life to the fullest.
Earl was married to the love of his life, Earline for 68 years, a testament to their love. He is survived by his wife, children Linda Baker Burns (Jeff) of Tulsa and Scott Baker (Trish) of Hilton Head SC; grandchildren James Burns (Claire), Margaret Burns, Lauren La Reve (Laura), Kristen Baker; and great grandchildren Ryder and Eleanor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to New Hope UMC Missions or the charity of your choice. The Memorial Service for Earl will take place at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at New Hope United Methodist Church, 11600 N Council Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73162. The memorial service will also be live streamed on the New Hope United Methodist Church OKC Facebook page.