Deacon Ted

Theodore (Ted) Otis Baker entered Heaven’s gates on August 10, 2023. We are fairly certain we heard them creaking as he slipped in.

Born January 27, 1938, Ted grew up in Houston, Texas. He was introduced to the love of his life, Nancy, and they married in 1958. Their union spanned more than six decades. He was a military veteran and following his service, he worked in the air-conditioning/mechanical field for more than 40 years.

Ted’s true passions in life were twofold: his loving wife and his unwavering faith. As a Catholic Deacon, he cared deeply for others and devoted countless hours to helping people. He baptized hundreds of children, ministered to prison inmates, and provided spiritual guidance to couples preparing for marriage. He served the Catholic Dioceses of Austin and Galveston-Houston. He was a member of St. Matthias in Magnolia, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Anthony, and Santa Teresa parishes in Bryan/College Station, as well as St. Mary in Plantersville.

His dedication to serving was matched only by his kind and warm demeanor, coupled with a remarkable sense of humor. Ted was a funny guy that could make anyone laugh; he truly never met a stranger. A popular saying of his was “Of all of my favorite _____, you are one of them.”

In his quiet times he enjoyed nature, especially birdwatching. His collections of stuffed bears, lighthouses, and walking sticks make for impressive displays. He loved family Christmas gatherings and his trips to both the East and West Coast in search of landmark lighthouses.

There to greet him in Heaven were his father ,Charles; his mother, Alpha; sister, Wanda; and brother-in laws, Jack Toedter and Bill Wickel; great-granddaughter, Alicyn Mitcham; and many close friends including his furry companions, Bo and Alex.

He is oiling the gates and saving seats for his wife, Nancy; his children, Vince and Linda Baker of Freeport, Texas; Patrick and Maria Baker of Elgin, Texas; Laura and Joe Vowell of Springer, Oklahoma; and Debbie and Jeff Smith of Houston, Texas; his sister, Dotty Wickel; his grandchildren, Heather and Justin Mitcham, Amanda and Scott Hutchison, Sarah Arnoudse, Caroline Baker, Molly Baker, Emilie Baker and Trevor Sifuentes. He is also guiding from above his great-grandchildren, Colby and Ashley Salyards, Charli Paneque, Brooke and JW Mitcham, Catherine, Thomas, Autumn and David Hutchison, Gabriel and Ella Arnoudse; and his great-great-grandchildren Theodore and Sloane.