Rick passed away peacefully at AdventHealth, Port Charlotte, FL after a brief illness, surrounded by friends.
Born in Mentor, Ohio to G. Leonard Baker and Gwendolyn A. Baker. Rick lived like the sea and the open plains — half pirate, half cowboy. He chased storms, women, whiskey, and every adventure life dared him to take. He was wild at heart, fearless in spirit, and never bound by rules but his own. In the end, he left us with stories bigger than legends and a reminder that life is meant to be ridden hard and toasted often.
Rick is survived by his son Richard G Baker Jr (Jocelyn) of West Coxsackie, NY, his 4 beloved grandchildren, his Brother George Lenoard Baker of Palo Alto, CA, his niece Penelope Elizabeth Baker Keifenheim, Atherton, CA and his nephew Griffith Leonard Baker, also of Atherton. Special friends, Glenn, Sue, and Aaron Seiders, held a unique place in Rick’s life and will remember him with great love.
A private service will be held by the family. Those wishing to honor Rick’s memory may do so by making a donation to the charity of their choice or raise a toast!
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It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald Aaron Kelley, aged 93, who departed this life peacefully on September 23, 2025, in Clewiston, Florida.
Born on October 23, 1931, in Cairo, Georgia, to the late Barney Lee and Sarah Isabelle Tomlinson Kelley. Donald married Grace Ruth Strickland, and they were together for many years before she preceded him in death on November 13, 1990. Donald led a life rich in love, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. Donald was also preceded in death by his eight brothers and sisters.
Donald was a devoted father to his daughter, Lisa Kelley, and his son, Donald Allen Kelley. He cherished his role as a loving grandfather to his grandson, devoted and loving Aaron Pickron his best friend, his loving caring granddaughter Niki Kelley, who brought him immense joy, as well as many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many special friends that he considered family.
Throughout his career, Donald was a respected car salesman and dedicated farmer, known for his sustainable sugar cane operation. His contributions to the community were marked by honesty and consideration for others, earning him the affection and respect of those who knew him.
His kind and loyal nature was a source of inspiration to many, embodying the values of generosity and integrity. Donald's life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to those he loved and the community he served.
The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Evangel Church in Clewiston, Florida. Following the service, Donald will be interred with military honors by the United States Army, a testament to his service to the nation.
As we celebrate the life of Donald Aaron Kelley, we remember him not only for his accomplishments but also for the love and warmth he shared with all. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, whose lives were profoundly enriched by knowing him.
In these moments of grief and remembrance, we extend our heartfelt condolences to those mourning the loss of Donald. His spirit and teachings will remain a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Donald was a devoted father to his daughter, Lisa Kelley, and his son, Donald Allen Kelley. He cherished his role as a loving grandfather to his grandson, devoted and loving Aaron Pickron his best friend, his loving caring granddaughter Niki Kelley, who brought him immense joy, as well as many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many special friends that he considered family.
Throughout his career, Donald was a respected car salesman and dedicated farmer, known for his sustainable sugar cane operation. His contributions to the community were marked by honesty and consideration for others, earning him the affection and respect of those who knew him.
His kind and loyal nature was a source of inspiration to many, embodying the values of generosity and integrity. Donald's life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to those he loved and the community he served.
The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Evangel Church in Clewiston, Florida. Following the service, Donald will be interred with military honors by the United States Army, a testament to his service to the nation.
As we celebrate the life of Donald Aaron Kelley, we remember him not only for his accomplishments but also for the love and warmth he shared with all. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, whose lives were profoundly enriched by knowing him.
In these moments of grief and remembrance, we extend our heartfelt condolences to those mourning the loss of Donald. His spirit and teachings will remain a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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Vito's journey began with an education at Chaffey High School, where he earned his high school diploma. His thirst for knowledge continued throughout his life, as he pursued military correspondence courses to further his education. His dedication to service drew him to the United States Army, where he served over 20 distinguished years. Vito's military career was particularly notable for his involvement in both the Vietnam War and the Persian Gulf War, experiences that shaped his character and instilled in him the values of integrity and honor. In his private life, Vito was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, who passed away on August 25, 2023. He is survived by four sons: Victor, Vincent, Vernon, and Vallen, along with seven cherished grandchildren: Desiree, Deidra, Vernon Jr., Angelo, Vanessa, Bella, and Bryce, and four great-grandchildren, Lainey, Karelyz, Karen, and Kahlan.
His family was the focal point of his life, and he took great joy in their accomplishments and the time spent together. Outside his professional responsibilities, Vito found pleasure in various activities. He enjoyed watching television and engaging with his tablet to learn new things. The beach and the ocean brought him a sense of peace, and he looked forward to trips to Las Vegas, particularly celebrating New Year’s Eve there.
Vito had a spirited love for gambling and delighted in attending shows, especially enjoying performances by artists like Jeff Dunham. As we remember Vito, we honor a man defined by honesty and commitment—not only to his country but to the family he cherished dearly. His legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the love he shared with all.
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