A memorial service celebrating the life of Richard D. Baker, 73, of Newark, will be held at 3 p.m., on Friday, September 20, at The Newark Chapel of Henderson-Van Atta-Stickle Funeral & Cremation Service, 59 North Fifth Street, Newark. Inurnment will take place in Wilson Cemetery at a later date where the Licking County Veterans Alliance will conduct military honors at graveside.

Richard passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.

He was born in Newark, Ohio on May 24, 1946 to the late Dwight A. and Mary E. (Harrison) Baker.

Richard loved sports, especially watching the Cleveland Indians and Cleveland Browns play. He was also a big NASCAR fan rooting for his favorite drivers, Dale Earnhardt, Sr. and Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

He was a 1964 graduate of Newark High School and enjoyed fishing with his son, just about anywhere. He was especially proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Richard proudly represented his country by serving in the United States Army during Vietnam.

He is survived by his mother, Mary E. Baker; wife, Mary C. Baker; a son, Andrew (Stephanie) Baker; two daughters, Angela C. (Rick) Tate and Aimee E (Troy) Hina; two brothers, Samuel D. Baker and David L. Baker; six grandchildren, Brittany, Emily, Faith, Cody, Lainee and Zach; and four great-grandchildren, Malia, Paisley, Brantley and Bryer.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dwight Alford Baker; and a sister, Ginger Teegardin.

Family and friends may call one hour prior to the service on Friday, September 20, (from 2-3 p.m.) at The Newark Chapel of Henderson-Van Atta-Stickle Funeral & Cremation Service, 59 North Fifth Street, Newark.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Richard to the Foundation for Hospice of Central Ohio, Post Office Box 430, Newark, Ohio 43058.

The Newark Chapel of Henderson-Van Atta-Stickle Funeral & Cremation Service is assisting the Baker family with arrangements.