Edward Walter Baker, of Stratford, July 23, 1919 – October 3, 2014. Born and raised in Bridgeport, Edward remembered the joys of childhood even in the midst of the Great Depression. He began a lifelong love of reading at Maplewood School and later graduated from Harding High School and the Bridgeport Engineering Institute where he prepared for work both as a toolmaker and as a manufacturing engineer.

During World War II, Ed enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in Japan. Following the War, Ed worked for the Lacey Manufacturing Company where he met and married the lively Hester Riggott. The couple moved to the Longbrook Park area of Stratford where they raised their three children. There Ed worked as an engineer at Manning, Maxwell, and Moore, and later AVCO/Lycoming until his retirement in 1988.

Ed's love of learning, of God, and of family remained the driving forces throughout his life. He encouraged and provided for many life experiences of the children, and was particularly involved in the Indian Guide program. He remained part of a number of bowling leagues for as long as his legs would allow, and was a life long stamp collector and modeler. Among Ed's newest joys were his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Baptized and raised in St. John's Episcopal Church of Bridgeport, Ed spent many years with the family at Park Street Congregational Church. In 1982, he and Hester became members of Christ Episcopal Church, Stratford where Ed served as an usher and counter for many years.

Ed was predeceased earlier this year by his wife Hester. He also leaves his children Judy (and Fred) Miller, Janice (and Rick) Jones, and Walter (and Debra) Baker, beloved grandchildren: Jennifer Stephen, J'aime, Ricky, and Gareth "Indy" Jones, and Cindy, Michael, and Allison Baker, and seven great grandchildren. Ed was preceded in death by his parents Grace and Walter Baker and his cousin, Fred Cockerill who throughout life, was like a brother to him.

Ed's children are grateful for the values and opportunities and love that Ed provided and lived. The family extends special thanks to the staffs of the Bridgeport Hospital Center for Geriatrics, the Golden Hill Nursing Home, and Milford Hospital for their kindness and care.

Family and friends are invited to attend funeral services on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 at Christ Episcopal Church, Stratford, at 10:30 am with Rev. Scott Lee officiating. Military honors will follow. There will be no prior calling hours. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the church of your choice. To offer online condolences please visit www.dennisanddarcy.com