Obituary of Melvin C. Baker

Melvin Charles Baker passed away Tuesday, January 5, 2021 in Cheektowaga, NY at the age of 91. Born in Buffalo, NY on February 13, 1929 to the late George and Christina Baker. Mel attended the University of Toronto where he earned a BA and MA in physics and chemistry. He met the love of his life, Margaret Trotter Baker at the University and they married on June 26, 1954. Shortly after they moved to New Haven, CT where Mel attended Yale University and earned a PHD in Physical Chemistry in 1955. Upon graduation, Mel and Margaret moved to Niagara Falls where he worked at Dupont for 36 years as a Research Chemist. They raised their family in Youngstown, NY. Mel was a lifetime member and past president of Niagara Frontier Country Club. He was also served as the Club Historian. In the early 1970’s, Mel was a founder of the Niagara Pioneer Soccer League. He was an avid stamp and coin collector as well as an animal lover especially dogs. Melvin is survived by his wife, Margaret, his four children; daughter, Susan Hansen and husband, Mark of Myrtle Beach,. SC; son, James Baker and wife, Lisa of Amelia Island, FL; son, Thomas Baker and his wife Viki of the Conroe, TX and daughter, Jane Wence and husband, Francisco of Niagara Falls, NY, As well as grandchildren, Matthew (Carly), Cameron (Erika), James (Amara), Nick (Kati), Christina, Stephanie, Harrison, Frankie and Ralphie and great grandchildren, Kaiden, Grayson, Emma, Peyton and Malia and nephew, Marvin Thomas Baker. The family is holding a graveside service for the immediate family only on Monday, January 11th. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Youngstown (http://youngstownpres.org/), Youngstown Fire Department (https://yvfcorg.vpweb.com/) or the Youngstown Free Library (http://youngstownfreelibrary.org/). We are going to miss the “sweet little old man”. Arrangements entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES INC. RANSOMVILLE, NY. Please visit www.hardisonfuneralhomes.com for online condolences.