Jay William Baker

Jay William Baker passed away on July 20, 2016 in Mountain View, CA at the age of 90. Jay was born in Medford, Minnesota to Earl and Anna Baker. He moved from Minnesota to California in the early 1940's and joined the Army in 1944. Jay served in WWII until 1946 in the 96th Division stationed in the Philippines and Okinawa. A few years later, Jay married Mabel on March 20th, 1948. In 1957, Jay and Mabel moved from Redwood City to Boulder Creek. At that time, they purchased a run-down cabin which they both turned into a beautiful home, where Mabel still resides. Jay bought the Boulder Creek Hardware Store in 1963, which he ran for 10 years. After Jay's retirement in 1973, Jay and Mabel traveled to many places around the world. Jay always kept busy with remodeling projects and building decks. Jay, known as "JB" to many of his friends, had many accomplishments and was very involved in his community. If there was a Mayor of Boulder Creek – Jay would be called "Mayor Baker". He was involved with the Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department for 47 years in many different capacities. He served on the Board of Directors of the San Lorenzo Valley Water District. Jay was also the President of both the Boulder Creek Business Association and the San Lorenzo Valley Museum. He was instrumental in the building of the annex behind the museum, which is named for him. Jay was a member of The Elks, S.I.R.S and a member of 2 bowling leagues. Scopazzi's Restaurant was one of Jay's favorites; he always looked forward to his Thursday lunches there. Jay is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Mabel Baker, his three children and their spouses, Ron and Karen Baker of Gold Hills, Oregon, Karen and Buck Moore of Columbia Falls, Montana and Laurie and Greg McGregor of Ben Lomond, 7 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings and his grandson, Joe McGregor. A Celebration of Life will be held for Jay at Scopazzi's Restaurant, 13300 Big Basin Way in Boulder Creek on Saturday, July 30, 2016 from 1:00 pm -4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department, 13230 Central Avenue Boulder Creek, CA 95006.