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David Allen Baker

David Allen Baker, 33, Starflight Medic 207 of Bassett Street, Jamestown, passed away, Friday (November 9, 2018) at Brooks Memorial Hospital, Dunkirk, following a five year courageous battle with brain cancer.

He was born Dec. 28, 1984, Gowanda, N.Y., the son of James and Diane (Day) Baker of Leon, N.Y.

David was a 2003 graduate of Pine Valley Central School and joined the New York Branch of the Army National Guard, having proudly served for nine years as a combat medic where he was known as “DOC” a nick name he took pride in being called.

David served one tour of duty in Afghanistan, where he received an accommodation and a field promotion to sergeant. His ability to work under pressure was a big attribute to who David was and carried over to his civilian life.

During his time in the National Guard, he also served his community at home, working for WCA Services Corp. and Star Flight for 14 years as a flight medic (badge 207). Despite his illness, David was able to continue working up until August of this year.

David was a member of several fire departments in the area over the span of his life. First at Leon Volunteer Fire Department as captain of the EMT’s, followed by Falconer Fire Department and lastly at Celoron. His life was dedicated to community service.

David is survived by his parents, James and Diane Baker of Leon; two brothers: John (Sarah) Baker and Joseph (Erica) Baker, all of Leon; three nephews whom he cherished to be in their lives, James, Sean and Michael Baker, all of Leon. He is additionally survived by his dog, Lexi, the unofficial mascot of Starflight and who was with David to the very end. David leaves behind, friends, co-workers, comrades and strangers, whom he somehow made feel special with his special touch.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grand- parents, Ivan and Florence Day; paternal grandparents, Orrin and Iola Baker, an uncle, Jay Baker; and several comrades that he served with in Afghanistan.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Thursday (Nov. 15, 2018) in the VanRensselaer & Son Funeral Home, 14 Church St., Randolph, NY 14772, where funeral services will be held at the 11 a.m., Friday (Nov. 16, 2018). Randall Honey, chaplain of Randolph American Legion Post 181 will officiate. Burial will follow in the Treat Memorial Cemetery in Leon.

Arrangements are entrusted to the VanRensselaer & Son Funeral Home, 14 Church St,, Randolph, NY 14772.

Memorials may be sent in his memory to VMH CH 20 INC, C/C Melodie Paladino, Dwyer Baker Memorial, 2538 Fisher Hill Road, Kennedy, NY 14747.

“Status Que”