Paul C. Baker

HAMILTON - Paul C. Baker, 88, of Hamilton passed away December 26, 2011 at the Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital in Hamilton. Paul was born on January 7th, 1923 in Tippecanoe, Ohio. He spent his childhood in Ohio, Utah, Idaho, and California. After graduating from Fullerton Junior College in California in January 1942 (now Fullerton State University) with a pre-certification for his Aircraft and Engine License, Paul signed up for Civilian Pilot Training. Shortly after graduating from the Civilian Pilot Training program in June of 1942, he received orders from the US Navy and joined the service, beginning his long and honorable career in the armed services.

Paul frequently ran weather and surveillance missions for the Navy, placing him and his crew dangerously in the eye of typhoons and hurricanes, occasionally even requiring perilous water-landings. He was frequently requested by name to transport generals and other high-ranking officials (VIP flights) due to his renowned abilities to fly safely through even the most difficult circumstances.

After leaving active duty in 1947, his piloting skills led him into what would become a stellar career as a pilot with Pan Am Airlines. Ultimately, he flew for PAA for 30 years, from 1951 until 1981, when he retired. However, Paul remained in the Naval Reserves and shortly after beginning his career with PAA, he was called back to active duty to serve in the Korean War in 1952. During the same year, on June 14th, Paul and his wife, Claudine married.

Paul and Claudine relocated from Guam, where they were living when Paul was serving during the Korean War, to New York in 1953 after being released again from active duty. Over the next 10 years, they had 7 children, and when the youngest was about 10 years old, they made one last relocation - to Montana, where they always dreamed of living.

After retiring from PAA in 1981, Paul continued to be very active in the local community. Being a Mason, a Shriner, a rancher, and an avid supporter of 4H kept him busy and involved. Meanwhile, his family quickly grew to having 15 grandchildren and, to date, 6 great-grandchildren, all of whom Paul was very proud of. Although Paul's eyesight was poor, he was skilled on the computer and even had a Facebook page, which he used to keep up with all the happenings in his large family. He also enjoyed using the computer to investigate and record his family genealogy and he eventually published his own book, written entirely by him.

During retirement, Paul and Claudine enjoyed RV-ing together and did so for over 20 years, visiting family and friends and exploring the great country Paul spent his life protecting. Paul also enjoyed fishing and was very proud of the 17 salmon he caught during his most recent fishing trip to Alaska, during the summer of 2011.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Claudine, their adoring children - Suisei, Patty, David, Jan, Becca, Nancy, and Scott " and their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family suggests that memorials be made in Paul's name to the Salvation Army.