Oneonta Sports Legend Lloyd F. Baker Dies at 94

He was an athlete, a teacher, a mentor, a veteran, a family man and a constant presence at almost all Oneonta High School events, sporting and otherwise.

Lloyd F. Baker, 94, died on Thursday April 26, 2018.

Baker was a longtime Central New York educator as well as a legendary athletic coach in the Oneonta school system.  He began his administrative duties in 1964 when he was named OHS vice-principal.  He later rose to be principal of the schools from 1972-1979.

During his time as an Oneonta football coach, he helmed a team for an undefeated year.  Baker was a friendly man who loved to tell stories of OHS games from the past.  He also attended current games and was a popular attendee at OHS alumni weekend events.  He was an active member of the community serving on several local boards and was involved in everything from the Oneonta Chamber of Commerce to the local YMCA.

Baker was also a veteran of World War II, where he served as a B-24 bomber pilot.

Lloyd F. Baker was a legendary coach of many sports in the "City of the Hills."  He was a role model and mentor to all young people he came in contact with.  He will be missed by all who knew him, but the stories will surely continue for many years ahead.

The athletic field at Oneonta High School is named in his honor.