Timothy Edward Baker

Timothy Edward Baker, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician, veteran, and devoted member of his community, passed away on November 3, 2024, at his home in Sacramento, California, surrounded by family. He was 81 years old. Born on March 11, 1943, in Sacramento. Timothy was the son of Thomas J. McMahon and Teresa Hardesty.

Timothy’s life was defined by service — to his country, his family, his patients, and his faith. He graduated from Alturas High School in 1960, then went on to Santa Clara University, followed by St. Louis University School of Medicine. After completing his education, Timothy served as a battalion surgeon in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, providing care to soldiers in difficult and dangerous conditions.

In 1968, Timothy married the love of his life, Susan Antoinette Tansey, at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. They went on to raise four children — Timothy, Rebecca, Christian, and Daniel — and shared a life full of love and adventure. Timothy was later blessed with nine grandchildren, who were a constant source of joy and pride throughout his life.

After his military service, Timothy completed a dermatology residency at Letterman Hospital in San Francisco. He went on to a long and distinguished career as a dermatologist at Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento, where he practiced for 32 years. From 1981 to 2006, he served as Chief of Dermatology, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, leadership, and excellence in patient care. For 42 years, Timothy was also a member of the UC Davis Department of Dermatology Volunteer Faculty, mentoring and shaping the careers of countless future dermatologists.

Beyond his medical career, Timothy was deeply passionate about the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and skiing, and he passed along this love of nature to all of his children. Whether he was on a family camping trip or enjoying a quiet day on the water, the outdoors brought him peace and fulfillment.

Timothy was also a devoted parishioner of St. Mel Church in Sacramento, where he was an active member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. His faith was an essential part of his life, and he found great joy in serving others through his church community.

Timothy’s family, friends, and colleagues will remember him for his unwavering kindness, his sense of humor, and his integrity with which he lived his life. He was a man of quiet strength, dedicated to making the world a better place for those around him. His legacy of love, service, and commitment to family will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Timothy is survived by his wife of 55 years, Susan; his children, Timothy, Rebecca, Christian, and Daniel; his nine grandchildren; and a wide circle of extended family and friends. 

A memorial service to celebrate Timothy’s life will be held on November 15, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Mel Church in Fair Oaks. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Timothy’s memory to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, St. Mel Conference

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