APRIL 25 – Charles Fredrick “Fred” Baker, of Farmville, formerly of Lumberton, NC, went home on Tuesday, April 23, 2013, following an injury. He was born on September 24, 1926, in Columbia, SC, to the late Etta Mae Baker Bennett and was raised by his grandmother, Rachel White. He was educated in the Robeson County, NC schools.

A World War II veteran, Mr. Baker served in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Houston when it came under enemy attack. He was later cited by President Harry Truman for service and bravery in battle. A member of “The Greatest Generation,” he only discussed his heroism when pressed.

On shore leave in New York City, Mr. Baker met Helen Onysko of Jersey City, NJ. The couple married on September 14, 1946 and settled in Jersey City.

He attended technical school, earning a certificate in electronics repair. He established and ran his own television repair business for more than 50 years from locations in Jersey City and North Arlington, NJ, and Lumberton, NC. Upon retirement, he and his wife moved to Farmville to be near family.

Committed to serving community and church, Mr. Baker devoted time to Queen of Peace Catholic Church and the Kiwanis Club, both of North Arlington, NJ and the Knights of Columbus at St. Francis DeSales Catholic Church, Lumberton, NC. He was also an avid supporter of organizations devoted to the welfare of children and animals.

Mr. Baker leaves his wife of 66 years, Helen; a daughter, Debbie Schroeder and husband, Tracey, and granddaughters, Ava and Josie, of Charlotte, NC; a daughter, Lisa Kinzer and husband, Charlie, and grandchildren Sarah, Christian and Rachel, of Farmville; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Lady. He was predeceased by his mother, Etta Mae Bennett; aunts Lucille Rodgers, Margaret Anderson, Thelma Packer and Lila Lewis; and an uncle, Bill Baker.

A funeral mass for Mr. Baker will be held in Farmville on Saturday, April 27, at 11 a.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church. A memorial service will be held in Lumberton, NC at a later date.

The family asks that donations be made in Mr. Baker's memory to Southside SPCA in Farmville, and the Robeson County Humane Society in Lumberton.

Puckett Funeral Home, Farmville, is serving the family. www.puckettfh.com