Seymour Loses Devoted Public Servant

SEYMOUR – The community lost one of its most dedicated public servants, Bruce Baker, who passed away Nov. 15.

Baker, 75, leaves behind his wife, Karen, of 54 years, and his sons Erik and Greg and several grandchildren.

Baker dedicated much of his life to public service, leaving behind an “extraordinary legacy of service to the Town of Seymour,” according to his obituary.

Baker served in numerous leadership roles, including Seymour’s Deputy First Selectman and Chairman of the Board of Education, as well as a member of the Board of Ethics, Chatfield School Building Committee, High School Building Committee, Seymour Strategic Planning Committee and the Board of Assessment Appeals.

In addition, Baker devoted his time to youth sports and recreation, serving as the Cub Master of Pack 65, Little League baseball and basketball coach, President of Seymour Pop Warner, President of the Seymour Kickoff Club, President of the Seymour Fathers’ Club and President of the Hoopsters’ Club.

A devoted church man, Baker was an active, 46-year member of Seymour Congregational Church serving numerous terms as Moderator, Deacon and in multiple finance roles.

His love of Boston sports was well-known, and throughout his retirement, Baker was an avid golfer.

Friend and fellow Board of Education member Fred Stanek said Baker’s passing is a huge loss.  

"As members of the Seymour Board of Education for many years together, Bruce and I often disagreed on important educational issues,” said Stanek. “However, Bruce understood that the best educational decisions for the school district were made through the deliberative process by discussing differing points of view. I will remember that Bruce had the best interests of the students at heart and that he and I were always able to leave a meeting after a heated civil debate shaking hands ready to continue our discussions at the next meeting. Bruce will be remembered as a great public servant.”

Former First Selectman Robert Koskelowski was proud to call Baker a friend.

“Bruce served on many boards, but when he served with me on the Board of Selectmen, it was an honor and that’s when we all new Bruce was serving to help make Seymour a great town,” Koskelowski said. “He helped us improve our school system. He was just a great guy who we will all miss. He worked hard for the betterment of the community.”

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Seymour Congregational Church, 45 Broad St. The family will welcome friends at a celebration of life reception in the fellowship hall at 3p.m. Interment will be private.

Donations can be made to the Bruce Baker Memorial Fund of the Seymour Congregational Church. Arrangements are with the Ralph E. Hull Funeral Home, 161 W. Church St. To share a memory online, visit www.hullfh.com.