David “Dave” L. Baker, 72, died from dementia on October 25, 2026, in Davenport, Iowa. Please join us for a celebration of life honoring Dave on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The Outing Club in Davenport, Iowa. Family and friends are invited to share stories, laughter, and fond memories. In true Dave fashion, we’ll enjoy a meal together and raise a glass to a life filled with friendship and laughter.
Dave was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, in 1954 to Forrest and Betty Baker. He graduated from Burlington High School with the Class of 1972, where he formed lifelong friendships. He later earned a degree from the University of Northern Iowa.
Dave began his career in the electrical industry while in college, working at Crescent Electric. He later held various roles at Crescent Electric, Republic Companies, and Eaton before retiring from Cooper Bussmann in 2019.
Dave was always on the go. He loved sports, concerts, and travel, but nothing meant more to him than time with his Saturday basketball group, his golfing buddies, or friends simply getting together. He was a loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Jets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Iowa Hawkeyes.
Dave is survived by his wife, Kelly (Maher). They married in 1997 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Davenport, Iowa, and together raised a blended family of three children. He leaves behind his son, Matt Baker (Kristin), and grandchildren Cole and Meredith; his daughter, Betsey Vold (Jake), and grandchildren Taylor, Maren, and Porter; and his stepson, Jerry Helwig (Rachel), and granddaughter Bradie.
Dave is also survived by his sister, Laura O’Connor-Diaz; his brother, Robert Baker; and his in-laws, Marianne and Bob Corbin, Joe and Jen Maher, and Casey and Jeff Powell. Family meant everything to him, and his loved ones will treasure the memories, stories, and smiles he leaves behind for years to come.
Dave was predeceased by his parents, Forrest and Betty Baker; his sister, Cindy Cooper; his father-and mother-in-law, Joe and Jackie Maher; and his brothers-in-law, Jim O’Connor and Manuel Diaz.
In lieu of flowers or memorials, the family asks that you honor Dave the way he would have liked best: by spending time with family and friends, swapping stories, enjoying each other’s company, and making memories.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Senior Star Memory Care and Moments Hospice for their compassionate care of Dave.