RICHARD E. BAKER, Formerly Brazil, IN

Richard E. Baker, 76, of Terre Haute, formerly of Brazil, passed away October 18, 2024, at Union Hospital. He was born on September 17, 1948, to Marion E. Baker and Mildred June (Weyer) Baker.

He graduated from Staunton High School and later Received BS in Mathematics at Indiana State University, MS in Mathematics/Computer Science at Indiana State University, Post graduate MS in Psychology at Indiana State University, PhD in Information Systems at Nova Southeastern University.

He loved his country and was a true patriot. He enlisted in the Indiana Air Guard before graduating from High School. He was enlisted in supply. He became an officer and flew the F-4 Phantom as a Weapons System Officer, first with Illinois Air Guard then at Indiana Air Guard. As his career continued with the Air Force, he held the following positions: Weapon System Officer, Instructor /113 Fighter Squadron, Chief of Supply, Squadron Commander, 181st Mission Support Squadron, Commander, 181st Support Group, State Director of Support, and the State Director of Operations.

While flying the F-4 he flew several worldwide deployments and training exercises. He also served through the Pentagon with the Drug Interdiction Program. He retired as a Colonel with 36 years of service.

His work career spanned many areas and he was proud to be a dedicated and valued employee at many companies over the years including: State of Indiana helping build I-70; Columbia Records; Anaconda Aluminum ; Reuben H Donnelly; Indiana Bell; FAA IT Department; Electronic Data Systems; American Airlines; Turner Construction Company and Zales.

He served in several capacities at Indiana State University including Construction management; Director of Homeland Security; Unmanned Systems; Associate Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Aviation Technology.

The last few years, he served as the Director Master’s Program at Capitol Technology University, Vice President of Student Affairs, and most currently Chaired and mentored PhD students.

Richard was proud to be a part of several Professional affiliations, including, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Treasurer, Board of Directors, Terre Haute Regional Airport, Advisory Board to the Dean, College of Technology – Indiana State University, Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems Internation (AUVSI), Indiana Chapter of the Association Unmanned Vehicle System Internation (AUVSI)Aviation Indiana, University Aviation Association (UAA), Association of Aviation Psychology Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society, Life Member Royal Aeronautical Society (Fellow), Master Award Winning Wine Maker.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and June Baker, sister, Janet Moore and her husband Bobby, Brother, William Baker, Daughter, Michelle Mathews, Father-in-law, Wayne Stearley.

Survived by wife, Ellen Stearley Baker, his loving soul mate. They were united in marriage on June 30, 1967. Also left behind, their son, Shaun Baker of Kokomo; Granddaughters, Ashley Oehler (Shane Harlos), Audrey Mathews; Mother-in-law, Barbara Stearley; Brothers and Sisters in Law, Marc & Connie

Childs, Nick & Peggie Workman, David & Linda Stearley, Garrett & Gina Ratcliff, Terry & Laura Van Horn; Aunts, Linda Hudson, Marjorie Hodges; Many Nieces, nephews and cousins.

In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with family, entertaining friends, and family. Reading, making wine, researching on the computer, and relaxing on the deck. Let’s not forget his pups Gus and Jo Jo, constant companions.

Above all he lived for his family, always thinking of their wellbeing.

Services for Richard will be held Thursday at 11:00 at Lawson-Miller Chapel, 1702 E. National Ave. with Pastor Lee Reberger officiating. A military honor will be provided by Scott Air Force and the VFW Post #1127 and American Legion Post #2. Cremation has been chosen. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4-8 at the funeral home. If friends so chose, donations may be directed to the National Kidney Foundation or the Lucky Pups or Humane Society. Post a note of condolence at www.lawson-millerchapel.com