Walter O. Baker Sr.

Walter Owen Baker passed away peacefully on August 29th, 2026. Walter was born on January 28th, 1941 in San Antonio, Texas to Mamie and Del Baker. Walter’s father was a long-time professional baseball coach for the Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers (where he also had stints as manager). Growing up in a professional baseball family, Walter had many fond memories including his role as Bat Boy for the Red Sox (where he picked up the nickname “Smokey”). Smokey often reminisced about being in the dugout with such greats as Ted Williams. Walter grew up in San Antonio where he attended five different high schools (Peacock, Alamo Heights, Schriener and another in Florida) before graduating from MacArthur. After high school, Walter attended Trinity University on the school’s first baseball scholarship. Walter also spent time playing baseball in the Cape Cod League during summers. While at Trinity, Walter met Sue Wolff, who became his best friend and the love of his life. The couple was married on September 30th, 1967. Walter loved baseball but chose a life with Sue and a career as a homebuilder. He was a custom homebuilder in San Antonio for 50 years before retiring, and today many beautiful homes in Terrell Hills, Olmos Park and Alamo Heights still showcase his fine work. Walter had several passions which he pursued with unmatched enthusiasm. He was an avid tennis player until he was introduced to the game of golf. After that, it was all golf for Walter. Walter was also a serious outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. He spent countless days on the water in Rockport and in the brush of South Texas. Walter always had a good story to tell about “the big one!” Sue and Walter are the proud parents of Stacy Auler (Chad) and Walter (Wally) Baker, Jr. They are also the grandparents of Yates Auler, Charles Auler, Owen Baker and Elizabeth Baker. In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by his brother, Del Baker, Jr. Walter loved being a father and grandfather, and he loved sharing his passions with his children and grandchildren. Walter was loved by his family and friends, and he will be sorely missed. We would like to extend a special “Thank you” to Dr. Fernando Lopez, Walter’s nurse Lorie, Judy and Jacob for the special care they have extended. A celebration of Walter’s life will be held Thursday, September 3rd at 2:00 at First Presbyterian Church . In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Athletics: PO Box 49, One Trinity Place, San Antonio, Texas 78212

Walter O. Baker Sr.

January 28, 1941 - August 29, 2026