James ("Jim") Lester Baker Sr., 91, of Chatham Center New York, passed away peacefully among family at home on Tuesday, April 29th.

Born on June 14th, 1933 in Chatham New York, Jim was the son of the late John Clark and Margaret Elizabeth Staatz Baker Jr.

Jim attended Chatham Central School and then enlisted in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force he married his wife, of 65 years, Esther.

Jim worked as a chief mechanic for NYSEG for over 30 years. He enjoyed gardening, tinkering in his garage, gathering with family and friends and enjoying a cup of coffee.

He is survived by son, John T. Baker, daughter in law Nancy Baker, grandchildren, Kathleen Baker, Alexia Baker, Ethan Baker, Jessica (Dennis) Fletcher, and Stacey Williams, sister, Margaret "Sis" (Carl) Law, Linda (Edward) Nesbitt, sister in law Joyce Sirani.

He was predeceased by his wife Esther, his son, James L. Baker Jr., and his brother, Phillip Baker.

Family will receive friends at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home on Friday, May 2nd from 5-7pm. Prayers and service on Saturday, May 3rd at the funeral home at 10am. Committal prayers and military honors will follow at the Chatham Center Cemetery at 10:45am.

In Lieu of flowers contribution can be made to the Community Hospice of Columbia Greene. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.