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Troy, OH — The Troy community is mourning the loss of Steven M. Baker, a respected journalist, U.S. Navy veteran, and civic leader, who passed away peacefully at 6:40 a.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. He was 79.
Born on July 15, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, Steve was the son of the late C. Oscar and Josephine (Weinert) Baker. He shared more than five decades of marriage with his wife, Martha A. Koenig Baker, whom he married on February 8, 1969, in Botkins, Ohio. Their enduring partnership remained a cornerstone of his life.
Steve leaves behind a loving family, including his son, Mark A. Baker of Colorado, and his daughter, Stephanie M. Waller (Michael) of Pleasant Hill. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren—Oscar and Oliver Baker of Colorado, and Max Silk, Josephine Silk, and Matthew Waller of Pleasant Hill—whose activities and achievements brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his siblings Thom Baker (Marsha), Leesa Baker, and Molly Cameron (Scott), along with numerous in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Larry Baker; and several brothers- and sisters-in-law.
A graduate of Brunnerdale Seminary High School’s Class of 1964, Steve later received an honorary degree from Edison State Community College. He served his country with honor as a Vietnam War veteran in the U.S. Navy, spending four years aboard the USS Sampson (DDG-10) and the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7), before his honorable discharge in 1970.
Steve’s professional legacy spanned more than 50 years in broadcasting. He began his career at WPTW AM/FM Radio in Piqua before evolving with the industry into videography and digital journalism. Known as a true “one-man band,” he reported news across multiple counties in the Northern Miami Valley for WDTN and WHIO-TV. He later became WHIO-TV’s Northern Bureau Chief, operating a bureau in Troy for many years. Even after retiring in December 2017, his passion for journalism led him to continue working as a contractor through his own LLC.
His commitment to excellence earned him widespread recognition, including induction into the Dayton Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Beyond journalism, Steve was deeply involved in community service, serving on numerous boards and supporting educational and nonprofit initiatives. A member of Leadership Troy’s inaugural class in 1984, he also helped establish the LT Meet the Candidate Forum in 1990. His honors included the National Distinguished Leadership Award and the Troy Chamber Distinguished Citizen Award.
A devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Troy, Steve spent his later years quietly giving back, including making rosaries for mission projects. His faith, service, and steady presence left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, with Rev. Fr. Eric Bowman officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Troy. Visitation will be held Monday, January 5, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Baird Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Miami County Dental Clinic or to St. Patrick Catholic Church.
Steven M. Baker will be remembered for his integrity, service, and unwavering dedication to both his profession and his community—qualities that defined a life well lived.