Kenneth Harold Baker, 83, passed away peacefully with family and friends present on

July 28th, 2013. Ken was born in Sacramento, CA, on February 3rd, 1930 to Harold & Alice Baker. He is survived by his son, Mathew W. Baker, daughter Colene D. Baker and Colene’s children, Nicole & Katrina. Ken was married to Barbara J. Baker for 26 years. Ken & Barbara raised their family in Tigard, OR, and moved to Seattle in 1977. Although they divorced in 1983, Ken never re-married. Ken always said that his family years, with kids, friends, camping, waterskiing, and fishing, – were the best years of his life. He loved Jazz music, he loved his work and his top sport was hunting deer and elk with his son and friends.

Ken studied business at Portland State University while working for Lipmann & Wolfe retail department stores. This was the beginning of his career in the fashion industry which he pursued for 60 years in retailing and wholesaling. He was a member of the Pacific Northwest Men’s Apparel Club for decades, serving on its board and was President in 1972. Ken absolutely loved the industry, people and his profession. Many of Ken’s lifelong friendships were within the “Garmento” industry. He was widely recognized by his employers, customers and peers as one of the best in the industry.

Around 1983, Ken moved to Maury Island, on Quartermaster Harbor, where he lived for 30 years. He remained very active and connected, working, entertaining friends, hunting and waterskiing into his 70s. As told by his many friends, Ken’s personal code of conduct and how he treated people was a model for all to follow. He was masterful with jokes and story-telling. He was known for “Bakerisms”. He had a unique and infectious laugh. Ken’s greeting was geniune and his presence was charismatic.

Ken had a fantastic life! His feet never stopped moving! He loved his family and

his friends!

We are having a “wake” style memorial at his home on Vashon Island on Saturday, August 24th from 12 – 4 p.m. Email KennyBWake@comcast.net if you knew Ken and would like to attend. We will send an Evite. Car pooling is highly recommended. Skip the tie and slacks for shorts & sandles. Bring a coat or a sweatshirt.

And remember…”thirst-things first”.

Paid Obituary.