"On behalf of the Caston Schools, let me say our thoughts and prayers go out to Paul's family," said Caston Elementary School Principal Cindy Douglas, who worked under Baker during his tenure at the school corporation. "He dedicated a lot of time and energy to his years here, and his daughter finished her school years here so we knew him as a parent, as well as an educator. He left us with many good memories, and many contributions to education."

Baker served as superintendent at Caston from 1991 until his retirement in 2000. He was a teacher in the Winamac schools from 1972 until he became principal of Winamac Community Middle School in 1987. He then served as principal of Winamac Community High School from 1988 to 1991.

"Paul was above all a first-class gentleman and always very positive," said Eastern Pulaski Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Klitzman. "He was a great educator and ambassador for education."

The funeral will be Wednesday (Dec. 7), at Bethel Bible Church, Winamac. A complete obituary appears in the Pulaski Post obituary section.