Robert E. Baker

Robert Earl Baker, 76, retired executive of General Electric Credit Corporation, passed away October 18, 2003, from complications resulting from a long battle with pneumonia. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, a descendent of the prominent Hoenshell family, Baker enjoyed serving as football team quarterback while in St. Petersburg High School and in the U.S. Navy, becoming known for his exceptional pass distance. During his enlistment in the U.S. Navy, he dutifully served as hospital core man and pharmacist mate on the U.S. Storms in the Mediterranean during WWII. Even as a child, Baker excelled in the study of mathematics, studied economics at St. Petersburg College and went on to become Southeast regional manager at General Electric. He possessed a keen sense of humor, dearly loved animals and enjoyed traveling. Switzerland and NYC were favorites. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg since his youth. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Vivian S., daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Dr. Wayne C. Guida and two grandsons, Marshall and Mitchel Guida. A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, November 7 at 2:15 p.m. at Bay Pines National Cemetery. Anderson-McQueen Funeral Homes-9th Street Chapel. Online guestbook @ www.andersonmcqueen.com