Richard V. "Dick" Baker

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Vann “Dick” Baker, 80, of Lansing, NY. Dick passed away at home on August 1, 2026, while surrounded by his family. Born November 28, 1945, in Ithaca, NY, he was the son of the late Frederick W. and Winifred M. (Vann) Baker.

Dick was a 1963 graduate of Ithaca High School. He worked at Therm, Inc. in Ithaca until receiving an apprenticeship at Smith Corona, where he worked as a Tool and Die Maker. In 1980, Dick purchased and became the owner/operator of Lansing Precision Tool, a business which allowed him the opportunity to work with many members of the community. While most of his work was related to precision machining for various businesses of all sizes, his craftsmanship is featured throughout the Golf Hall of Fame and other locations around the world, including the homes of celebrities and even in space. Countless community members knew that if there was a problem to be fixed or something that needed to be made, Bake could find a way; he could make parts for anything. He loved to help even after his retirement at the age of 62.

In his youth, Dick had a passion for softball and played with the Glenwood Pines softball team. Later in life, he fell in love with golf and played until this spring in leagues at Newman Municipal Golf Course and Stonehedges Golf Course.

Dick was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved to garden and had a garden admired by all. Dick created a beautiful property in Lansing that included a pond full of Koi fish that he fed and raised for years. He also loved to feed and watch all types of birds, especially bluebirds who have houses throughout the property that he built.

Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judith Morgan Baker; his children, Tammy Baker Salvett of Clay, NY, and Richard “Jeffrey” (Jennifer) Baker of Lansing, NY; his sisters, Mary Macera of Lansing, NY, and Betty (Bill) Gibbons of Exton, PA; and his grandchildren whom he loved so much, Ashley Salvett, Robbie Salvett and Amanda Baker. Dick will also be remembered by his brother-in-law, Tom Morgan (Leanne Field); and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy MacCarrick.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service in remembrance of Dick at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Lansing Funeral Home, 32 Auburn Road, Lansing. In lieu of calling hours, all who knew Dick are welcome to attend a celebration of life from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Crossroads Bar & Grille, 3120 North Triphammer Road, Lansing.

Dick’s family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to everyone at Hospicare, especially his nurse, John, and spiritual coordinator, Rebecca.

In lieu of flowers contributions in memory of Dick may be directed to:

Hospicare of Ithaca, 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850

SPCA of Tompkins County, 1640 Hanshaw Road, Ithaca, NY 14850

Lansing Rod and Gun Club, 55 Salmon Creek Road, Lansing, NY 14882