David Coombs Baker

David Coombs Baker passed away peacefully at home on July 10, 2025, in Smithfield, Utah, surrounded by his beloved wife of 73 years, Marilyn Eames Baker, and their son Martin. He was 95.

Born on November 14, 1929, in North Logan, Utah, David was the youngest of nine children in a close-knit farming family. His father, a lifelong farmer and the local water master, passed away while driving a tractor—with teenage David working alongside him in the fields. His mother died shortly thereafter, while one of David’s older brothers was serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These early losses forged David’s resilience and deepened his sense of responsibility.

During the Korean conflict, David served in the U.S. Navy, training as an aircraft gunner. After marrying, he was reassigned to food services. He often recalled being air-lifted by helicopter onto an aircraft carrier, where one of his first duties was chasing and securing dislodged missiles on the flight deck during nighttime landings. He performed these dangerous tasks with calm resolve and characteristic humor.

David met Marilyn at a dance while home on leave. After six weeks of writing letters back and forth, they married—a union that would span more than seven decades of devotion, adventure, and faith.

Professionally, David taught life sciences at Weber High, Bonneville High, Minico High, Wendover High, and schools across Utah, Idaho, and California. But teaching was just one of his many trades. A born entrepreneur, he started and ran several small businesses: selling cookware, hauling mobile homes, managing restaurants, selling insurance, renting carpet cleaners, and operating a greenhouse, running an autobody repair shop. He also worked in construction and helped family members build or repair their homes—always ready with tools, skill, and encouragement.

He was a man whose hands were never idle and whose heart was always full. His life’s work was providing for and supporting his wife, children, and grandchildren—offering help with plumbing, electrical, drywall, auto repair, or just good advice, often with a smile and a joke.

A lifelong and deeply committed member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David served as a Gospel Doctrine teacher in many wards and as bishop in Wendover, Utah. His testimony never wavered, and he quietly influenced many through his example of steady service and sincere faith.

David was known for his quick wit, gentle presence, and love for the Cache Valley countryside—especially the quiet back roads west of Smithfield where he spent much of his youth. He often reminisced about Native American families who passed through the family farm in springtime, resting under the apple trees—a symbol of the enduring peace he found in memory, nature, and family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn (age 90), and their five sons:

• David Scott Baker (Janet)
• Martin R. Baker
• Kevin Eames Baker (Claudia)
• Bryan F. Baker
• Wayne Edwin Baker (Christine)
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A beloved daughter, Chadley Ann proceeded him.

His grandchildren and great-grandchildren include:Caleb (wife Sheraton, children Kylee, Dillon, Brighton), Terrell (child Tatum), Katie, Cara Marie (partner Dick; children Kaia, Carter, Brenna), Craig, Daniel (wife Alicia; children Daniel Craig, Kaylee), David (husband Chris), Allye, Christopher (wife Emily; children Caitlin, Sarah, Amelia), and Matthew (wife Crystal).

David leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and tireless work. His life was one of humble leadership and unwavering devotion to God, family, and community.

There will be a graveside service at 11:00 AM Friday, July 18, 2025 at the Logan Cemetery.

To read more or share a memory, please visit: David Baker's Legacy Wall