SURFSIDE – Philip E. Baker, 72, a resident of Surfside the past nine years, died Nov. 17, 2004, at his residence. The son of George and Lily (Turnquist) Baker, he was born Nov. 30, 1931, in Portland, Ore. He grew up in the east county area, attending Powellhurst Grammar School and Gresham High School. His future wife also attended the same Gresham schools, just a few years behind him.

His connection to the Peninsula came early. Beginning in 1947, he spent many summer vacations here at a family friend’s summer place, sometimes working on Willapa Bay in the oyster industry. These were some of his fondest memories.

On Oct. 18, 1952, he and Shirley Roberts were married in Portland, setting up home in the Parkrose area. For his entire working life, Mr. Baker was an automobile upholsterer; the last 15 years he owned his own shop. He retired in 1995. He was known throughout the Portland area for the quality of his work. He also served nine years in the Oregon National Guard.

In 1994 the Bakers purchased their home in Surfside, moving in permanently in May 1995. He quickly became active in the community, volunteering for many years with the Water Music Festival and was extremely involved in the Surfside Homeowners Association. He was an active member of the Oysterville Community Club and the Peninsula Senior Activity Center, in addition to the Ocean Park Moose and Eagles lodges. He had a fond appreciation of wildlife and nature and loved boating, fishing and hunting.

Mr. Baker is survived by his wife Shirley; three sons and daughter-in-laws Michael and Dodi Baker of Gresham, Ore., Lawrence and Myra Baker of Spokane, and Jeffrey and Bonnie Baker of Vancouver. Also surviving are two brothers and sister-in-laws Fredrick and Linda Baker of Hillsboro, Ore., and James and Joyce Baker of Bend, Ore. In addition there are seven grandchildren, Leeland, Traci, Charityn, Brianna, Easton, Clarissa and Christian and two great-grandchildren Jacob and Carmen; four nieces and nephews Julie, Brian, Megan and Jennifer. Finally, surviving him is his precious Aunt Dora, who helped raise him as a young boy.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m., at the Oysterville Church. Officiating will be Al Wollen, retired pastor of the Cedar Hills Bible Chapel and grandson Leeland Baker. A gathering will follow at the Oysterville School. Those wishing may make memorial donations to Harbors Home Health and Hospice in care of Penttila’s Chapel by The Sea, P.O. Box 417, Long Beach, WA 98631 who are in charge of arrangements.