Richard N. Baker, 82, formerly of Andover,


Richard N. Baker of Hill, N.H., and formerly of the Andover, and Townshend in Vermont, passed away on Feb. 12, 2022, after a short non-Covid related illness. He was born on Nov. 26, 1939, in West Glover, Vermont, to David and Alene (Stevens) Baker. At an early age, Richard and his family moved to Hill Top Farm in Andover, where he was raised along with his older sister, Jean (Day).

Once out of high school, then known as Chester Seminary, Richard joined the U.S. Marine Corps. After serving for four years, he returned home and began working at the Chester Esso Station. It was at that time that he met and married the love of his life, Alice Melendy. They were married on Oct. 7, 1962, and celebrated 58 years together.

During their first years of marriage, Richard and Alice saw many new “homesteads” as they moved around with Richard’s employment, working on the construction of the Eisenhower Interstate Highway System. Within 10 years, their family would grow to include five children.

They settled the young family in Andover, where Richard would own the R.N. Baker Garage for many years. Later, they moved to Townshend where Richard continued his life-long career working as an auto mechanic. Eventually, Richard and Alice retired and moved to Hill, N.H., where they were surrounded by many of their extended family, which included children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, his beloved Alice in 2020, his daughter Heather Colleen Fagan in 2002, son-in-law Timothy Fagan in 2011, and grandson Zachary Fagan in 2014. He is survived by his sister; his children Richard David (Laura), December-Lynn (Vincent) Fortin, Rusty Gordon (Elizabeth), and Nicholas Alexander (Steffanie); 17 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be announced and held at a later date, at the family’s convenience. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Richard’s name to Grace Cottage Hospital, 185 Grafton Road, Townshend, VT 05353 or by clicking here.

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  1. George Gordon says:

    Regrets and sorrows to his Family. Will always remember the times at Hill Top Farm where he fixed up and painted his 1950 Mercury, Robins Egg Blue and White. Also, the times he and I won money at the VT State Bowling Tournament in St. Johnsbury. I think we each got checks for $12 +/- when we bowled in the Doubles Tournament. Also, when he installed a Lincoln engine in my black 51 Mercury and got my 56 Oldsmobile painted black in time for my wedding and all the other great times we’ve had. He will be remembered – Always. Butch Gordon

  2. Nathan Adams says:

    Sorry for this news. Dick Baker was a high school classmate of mine and I shall never forget him trying to keep me awake in Pop Newton’s very boring class on a Shakespeare play, by placing tacks in my chair before class. Shall miss him greatly and I had hoped to visit him in Hill, N.H., this coming summer. My condolences to his family and may he rest in the tack-less hands of the good Lord.