Obituary

Richard K. Baker

October 19, 1943-August 11, 2024

Richard K. Baker, a resident of Irvine, CA. passed away peacefully on 8/11/24, with his beloved wife Lydia, of fifty years by his side.

Born October 19, 1943 in Scranton, Pennsylvania to Nina and Leland Baker, Richard’s early years were spent at the Schlar Boarding School in Philadelphia while his parents were completing their degrees in Science and Education. Though his family frequently relocated from state to state during these informative years, Rich developed an appreciation in the art of making new friends and acclimating to new surroundings.

Rich graduated from South Side High School in 1961 and went to Indiana University to study Economics. After two years, he enlisted for military service as a Combat Engineer and service in Alaska and at the Nike Missile Base in Ohio for three years. After discharge from the Army, Rich moved to Los Angeles, Ca. and was employed by Pacific Bell as a telephone installer where he met his wife to be, Lydia I. Alcaraz. After a short stay in California, Rich pursued his education spending three years at the University of Tulsa and received a full scholarship to South Dakota School of Mines and Technology where he obtained a B.S. degree in Petroleum Geology and an M.S. in Ground Water Geology.

In 1973 returning to California, Richard and Lydia were married on New Year’s Eve at the “Little Chapel of Roses” in Pasadena.

That same year presented an opportunity to be hired as an engineer by the Department of Conservation, Division of Oil & Gas in Long Beach, CA. This position opened many opportunities for approving and monitoring projects that had significant effect on the environment and safety. During his thirty-one-year career with the Division of Oil & Gas, twenty of them were held as the District Deputy of District 1 which regulated 33,000 oil and gas operations from Los Angeles County to the Mexican border. A well-deserved recognition was in 1998 when Rich was recognized as Oilman of the Year for his Outstanding Achievements in the Industry and Community.

Despite the demands of his career position, Rich taught Geology at Orange Coast College, and Coast Community College for two years. His side tax preparer business that he ran for thirty years was another pursuit he found satisfying.

Enjoyment for Rich meant hosting poker parties at home with friends, golfing, target shooting, coin and stamp collecting.

The most notable thing about Rich was that he wanted the best for you and gave his support wholeheartedly. His generous personality secured lasting friendships which he treasured.

Richard is survived by his wife Lydia, his sister-in-law, Sylvia Steinberg, and his brother-in-law, Steve Steinberg.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ascension Cemetery in Lake Forest, Ca. where a private military funeral will be held. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your preferred charity. Plans for a Memorial Service are pending.