Craig Baker
East Lyme — Craig “Coach” John Baker, born Dec. 14, 1956, to John and Lyette (Ross) Baker, passed away unexpectedly on June 9, 2018, at the age of 61.
A resident of East Lyme, Craig attended East Lyme High School. He later married the love of his life, Janice (Glock) Baker, after the two began dating while working at the Village Bake House in Niantic. The two were happily married for 39 years and have three children, Nicholas, Adam and Jenny. Craig was a devoted family man, friend and football coach who was known for his kindness, generosity, devotion and sense of humor. To meet Craig meant that you had a lifelong friend and always had a seat at the dinner table.
Craig’s early career was at Pfizer, until he changed career paths and became a baker, most recently at Tri-Town of East Lyme. He was passionate about football and coached at the youth level in East Lyme for many years. He would light up when discussing his former players and enjoyed receiving updates on them and seeing them as they grew older.
Craig’s grandchildren, Kyle, Olivia, Adam Jr., Matthew, Alexandra and Maezie, were the light of his life, and his world revolved around providing them with love, laughter and the frequent handfuls of candy.
Craig is survived by his loving wife Janice of Groton; sons Dr. Nicholas Baker and wife Elizabeth of Avondale, Pa., and Adam Baker and wife Sarah of Waterford; daughter Jenny Capazzi and husband Matthew of Gales Ferry; mother Lyette Baker of Ocala, Fla.; sisters Wende Nelson and husband Michael of Ocala, Fla., and Rande Bennett and husband William of Groton; and brother Graham Baker and Sue Hines of Hooksett, N.H. Craig is predeceased by his father, John Baker.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Calling hours will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 15, at Thomas Neilan & Sons in Niantic. A Celebration of Life will follow at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 16, at the funeral home.
Donations in his name may be made to the East Lyme High School football team or to Guardians of the Purple Heart.