David Baker

1929-2021

David Baker one time superintendent of the Wm. S. Hart School District, passed away on February 16, 2021.

Dave was born in East Los Angeles on March 10, 1929 to James H. and Delores (Hernandez) Baker. He was the youngest of seven children. He graduated from Fremont High School and Pepperdine University. After serving in the Korean War as a Marine, Dave continued his education at the University of Southern California where he earned a Masters degree in science and continued his work on graduate degrees in education.

Known as a passionate and dedicated educator, Dave began his career with the Hart District in 1952 as a teacher, coach, administrator and the first principal of Sierra Vista Junior High. He went on to serve as superintendent of schools with the La Honda-Pescadero Unified District before returning to the Hart District as superintendent from 1969-1973. He then served as superintendent in the Emery Unified District, the Western Placer Unified District and the Santa Ynez Union District. For a brief time he ran his own consulting firm but he ultimately returned to the job he loved most, teaching.

Dave taught math at Palmdale High School where he was recognized as teacher of the year and elected as president of the teacher’s union. He became an adjunct professor of education at Cal State Northridge in 2000 where he taught school finance classes until he retired at the age of 80. Many of Dave’s former Northridge students are now serving in districts throughout Southern California. After a long career in education, Dave decided he would return to his love of the classroom once more as a volunteer at Canyon High and Rio Norte Junior High where he tutored students in math and science for five years.

In his later years, Dave enjoyed traveling the world with Ruth, playing with his darling dog Bonnie, growing an extensive garden, attending Dodger spring training baseball games, meeting friends for breakfast or coffee, and spending time with his family. Dave left an enduring contribution and legacy to education for which he is remembered.

A life-long Californian, Dave is predeceased by his first wife Margaret Rita Baker, his daughter Elise (Peaches) Olson and his nephew William d’Autremont with whom he was very close. He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years Ruth Baker, his daughters Cheryl (Pinky) Achterberg and Rhena (Pepper) O’Shaughnessy. He leaves seven grandchildren Jerusha; Rylan, Tyler and Kyle; and Tara, Jessie and Levi, as well as 12 great grandchildren.