September 17, 1942 ~ October 14, 2023
Theodore “Ted” Baker Jr., 81, of Reading, passed away surrounded by his family on October 14, 2023. The son of the late Theodore and Mary Baker of Watertown. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 53 years, Janice (Patalano) Baker.
He was the dearly loved and respected father of Melissa (Baker) Gentile and her husband Paul of Reading, Carolyn (Baker) Eliet and her husband Colm of Reading, and Theodore Baker III and his wife Kara of Middleton.
He was incredibly adored as “Grampa” by Audrey, Madeline, Lilla, Trice, and Eliot. Ted is also survived by his brother, Paul Baker, and his wife, Jane, and by brother, Philip Baker, as well as dearly loved nieces, Michelle Valentino and Suzanne Baker, and nephews, Kevin Baker and Daniel Baker.
Ted was a proud alumnus of Northeastern University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, as well as an MBA from Boston University. With an unwavering passion for science and technology, Ted embarked on a lifelong journey marked by remarkable achievements, including his most recent role at MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center.
Ted looked forward to trips to. St. Martin, where he and Janice had struck up many friendships over the years. Ted also enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, notably playing with whatever fancy new toy Santa brought him each Christmas, and he especially looked forward to savoring the two blissful weeks each summer they shared on Cape Cod.
His unparalleled sense of humor and keen empathy created an irresistible charm, captivating and earning the respect of everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
Ted’s funeral service will be held from the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading (Corner of Park St. and Rt. 28 at the Reading Line) on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral mass to be celebrated in Ted’s name at St. Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill St., Reading at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be in Wood End Cemetery, Reading.
Friends and family are cordially invited to visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home on Friday, October 20, 2023, from 4 to 7p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Theodore’s name to Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell 657 Middlesex St., Lowell. MA 01851.
