Joseph “Joe” Baker, a longtime educator, coach and athletic administrator whose career spanned nearly five decades, has died at the age of 77. Baker passed away peacefully at a hospital in Tampa, Florida, following complications from two strokes, according to his obituary published by Legacy on October 5, 2026.
Baker was remembered by his family and former colleagues as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend. His professional life was closely connected to education and athletics, where he spent decades working with young people and helping athletes reach their potential both in sports and in the classroom.
Joseph Baker Built a Career Around Education and Athletics
Born in Summit, New Jersey, and raised in Vauxhall and Newark, Baker developed a passion for sports at an early age. He attended Weequahic High School, where he became a standout athlete in football, basketball and baseball.
Baker had an opportunity to sign with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization but decided to continue his education instead. He graduated from Montclair State University in 1970 with a degree in physical education.
His professional career began as a teacher and coach at Vailsburg High School in Newark. He later moved into collegiate athletics, working at Montclair State and Rutgers before joining Colgate University.
At Colgate, Baker served as an assistant basketball coach before becoming head men’s basketball coach, a position he held from 1979 through 1989. He also contributed to the school’s baseball and track programs.
His career later took him to the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He eventually moved into athletic administration, serving as athletic director at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse for 12 years.
Remembered for Mentoring Young People
In 2010, Baker became Carroll University’s first full time Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. He remained in the position until his retirement in June 2018.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Baker was remembered for his approachable personality and his commitment to athletes, coaches, parents, alumni and colleagues. His obituary described him as humble, kind and easygoing, with a willingness to encourage people around him.
Baker was inducted into the Weequahic High School Athletic Hall of Honor and the Newark Athletic Hall of Fame.
After retirement, Baker and his wife, Delaine, moved to Wesley Chapel, Florida. They enjoyed spending time with family, following the Yankees, Giants and Knicks, and listening to music from his extensive collection.
Baker is survived by his wife, three sons, three sisters and seven grandchildren, along with extended family, friends, former athletes and colleagues.
His family plans to hold a small private service in Florida, with a larger celebration of his life in New Jersey expected to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked supporters to consider donating to the Weequahic Park Association.
