Community Cares John Baker

John Baker passed away from injuries sustained while competing in a NASCAR sanctioned Southwest Series Event at Irwindale Speedway on June 8, 2002. For those who have been online awhile, years ago John Baker would go on Prodigy as Sheriff John or Officer Baker and was quite entertaining to all the race enthusiasts. John won his first Southwest Series pole at Irwindale, and I think that is what I remember most, the joy he had. Those were the days when NASCAR would let you “borrow” the Pole Award and take a photo. It is too sad for me to write anymore. Again I can only say I don’t know how the family and close friends feel. We all handle grief differently. I can only say I am sorry for the loss of a good person, and I will pray for the family to have strength and courage. I am so sorry. God Speed, John.

John Baker Updates

• 06/08/2003 - JOHN, WE REMEMBER YOU

Today is June 8 and it has been one year to the day since driver of the No. 18 NASCAR SW Tour car, John Baker of Tucson (Ariz.), died of injuries sustained while competing at Irwindale Speedway. ...
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• 06/19/2002 - THANK YOU FROM ROBIN BAKER
  Thank you for all your support with your letters and cards. My husband was a very special man who I loved more than I loved myself. ...
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Prayers and Support For John Baker

• Chris Smith
  Hey John, i know its been 7 years now, but we definatly miss you in Tucson, I ran the # 18 sticker on my car after you had passed. You were definately a hero of mine, watching you and Carl Trimmer go after it every weekend was the best. Go get em in heaven buddy... hopefully all the racers up there can look at your stuff and know what a great car looks like. You were always the best looking car inside and out. We miss you John....The Smith family. :)
• Alan Siegel
  Robin, I only just found this site. God Bless you and never forget I love you and the boys always!! Neither time nor distance can ever change what's been in at least my heart since we were teens. Find happiness and be well. Love Your Brother in Law, Alan
• Peter-John Newton
  John has not been forgotten. We still pray for Robin and all those who loved John.
• Bernie & Stephanie Hilber
  To the family, friends, and crew of John Baker we would like to send our condolences. John was a wonderful racer to work with our many years on the SWT. He was always the gentleman and true professional. We don't get to the races much anymore but will miss his smiling face when we do.
• Howard Nafzger, Former Official and Competition Director at TRP
  I was saddened to hear of the untimely passing of racer John Baker. I have worked for sixteen years at what is now Tucson Raceway Park and got to know John and his father real well. He was a good person and a pleasure to be around. He will be missed. Good luck and best wishes for strength to his family and all those who loved him.
• Patricks Motorsports
  Words cannot express the sorrow we feel at the loss of our Tucson brother and fellow racer John Baker. All our love to the family.
• George, Crew Member
  My name is George; this is only my second season in FSWS as a crew member and it was John and his team who Allowed me to chase my own dream in stock car racing and I was fortunate to be part of the team last season. I have composed the following, perhaps something we all as human beings should try and achieve. I have simply called it.. "A Man" Measure a man not by his victories but how he accepted his loses. Measure a man not by where he's been but how he worked to get there. Measure a man not by whom he has knocked down but by whom he helped up. Measure a man by not what he has destroyed but what he has created. Measure a man by not how many people he humiliated but by how many he left with dignity. Measure a man not by what he had but what he had given. When a man passes from this life to the next, measure him not by how he died but how he lived. God Bless.
• Gary Krieger
  To John's family and friends, I know we are all saddened by the loss of John. Racing was John life and his death will be very hard to deal with, be happy for the time you had with him! Please accept my condolences:
• Kanke Family
  To John Baker's family and crew: Words cannot describe our sadness and aching for you now. Our family will keep you all in our prayers and ask God to give you the strength to persevere in the days ahead. Take good care of each other... Love, the Kanke Family
• Ron's Rear Ends
  To the family and crew of John Baker, Although we did not know him personally we feel your loss. Racing is one big family. A tragic accident and loss deeply affects us all. We were at the Race and witnessed the crash. We were extremely saddened this morning to read in the newspaper that the driver, John had passed away. Our prayers are with all of you in your loss. Our Condolences, Ron Sabala, Kay Barela, and Friends .
• Scott Lynch and Clarissa Cutler
  We are very sad to hear the news. John always brought a smile to our faces. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. We send our thoughts and prayers to the family and close friends. God Bless.
• #45 Southwest Tour Team
  I am speaking on behalf of the #45 Southwest Tour car driven by Sean Woodside. Sean, the Walker family, and the rest of the #45 crew would like to express their most sincere condolences to the Baker family in the loss of their loved one, and may God be with you during this most difficult time.
• Scott Busby and the Busby Motorsports Team.
  Our hearts and feelings go out to John's family, crew and friends. It was a pleasure racing with John, as he was always very professional and cordial. In our racing circle, we would never expect such tragedy to strike so close to home. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
• Dix Motorsports
  Sincere heartfelt condolences go out to the friends and family of John Baker. May the support of friends, family and the racing community be of comfort in this time of sorrow and knowing that people care. John will be missed by all.
• Ray Wolfenberger - spotter for team "" Kaos ""
  Dearest Baker family , friends, and crew the loss of a great person the caliber of John is so hard too deal with.. too be taken so suddenly from us all is one of the hardest things too deal with in life ... our family and crew will keep you in our prayers, and may gods strength and guidance keep you strong in the days to come ! please lookout for each other ! Gods Speed,
• Borneman Motorsports
  The entire Borneman Motorsports team would like to send its thoughts and prayers to the Baker family
• Scott & Tyler Speight & Danielle Latorra
  I will remember you, I am only a fan, but I understand what it is to be a good man. I believe from all I have seen and heard being a railbird, you were just that, a good man. I knew the minute I saw the emergency workers faces, you had gone to a better place. The next race won't be the same without you. We will continue to run our race of life and cheer for those who win or give it their best on the track, but rest assured John Baker, I will always remember you when I think of those who made me proud to be a race fan. May you now sit in the stands and watch us run, I hope you will be proud to know I was your fan. My prayers are for your family and friends who now have to go on without you, to them I say- lets run our race the best we can and hope we make John as proud as he made us.
• Fred Dimmitt
  I was saddened to hear of John Baker's death last night. I have been a Southwest Series fan for many years and was in attendance at the race last night. I hate to loose a competitor this way. My prayers and condolences to his crew and family.
• Vidovich Racing
  We are so sorry for the loss of John. He was a true friend and a real gentleman. We got to know John real well and he will be greatly missed. We want to express our deepest sympathy to his family, friends and crewmembers. We have truly lost a good guy. There are just no words to describe how sorry we are. God Bless the Baker family, friends and crewmembers who have to go through this terrible loss. Please let us know if there is anything you need or anything we can do.
• Allen and Paula Huntley and the rest of the 61 crew
  On the behalf of the # 61 Ledbetter Motorsports are deepest sympathy to John Baker's family and friends. Our short time of racing with John will always be remembered. All will truly miss him.
• Dave Reed, Mary Berg, and family
  Our hearts and prayers go out to the family, crew, and friends of John Baker. He was a great competitor and friend. John will be greatly missed by all who knew him as he touched so many people in such a positive way with his upbeat attitude, kindness, humor, and hardworking ethic. While it is hard for us all to understand...why now? why so young? and, why such a good person? We can all take comfort in remembering our many interactions with John and how extremely fortunate we were to have known him whether personally or as a fan. As we go through life, we encounter many people, John is one of those individuals that we are better for having known him. We will miss and always remember you.
• Burney Lamar and the Lamar Motorsports Team
  Our thoughts and prayers go out to John's family and crew. For the first time I had a chance to talk to and get to know John yesterday. I am sad of our short friendship, but thankful for the chance to have met him. John was a true competitor. God Speed, John.
• GAM 06
  Sheriff John: You have achieved the ultimate lap-You have matched God's speed. My heart and hands have never been as heavy as they are upon these keys-you are in the Winner's circle. With all my heart
• Greg & Michelle Fowler & The Entire Fowler Motorsports Team
  As we watch our Spouses, Family & Friends race last night at Irwindale you never imagine that one of our FSWS Family of Drivers is no longer going to be racing with us. We all work hard & travel far to get to each race & are truly ONE big Family!! We would like to express our deepest sympathy to the Baker Family & Crew. John was a true SPIRIT to the series. YOU WILL BE MISSED!!! GOD BLESS!!! Love & Prayers
• Rocky Nash and family
  To the family, friends and crew, I'm sure it does not need to be said that John was loved, and thought of highly, by everyone who had been blessed enough to have met him. His smile will be missed, and our prayers and thoughts will be with you at all times.
• Ron Sabala, Kay Barela, and Friends
  To the family and crew of John Baker, Although we did not know him personally we feel your loss. Racing is one big family. A tragic accident and loss deeply affects us all. We were at the Race and witnessed the crash. We were extremely saddened this morning to read in the newspaper that the driver, John had passed away. Our prayers are with all of you in your loss. Our Condolences
• Collin Snider
  After meeting John for the first time at the autograph session that day but being a S.W. Tour fan for years I had a couple of questions that he happily answered. I am terribly hurt to have just met him in person and then while following him on the track to have witnessed the whole thing. My condolences to the Baker family and my prayers are with them.
• Scott & Stephanie Brandt Patricks Motorsports
  We find it hard to put into words what we as friends and fellow racers feel this morning as we learn of John's death. Thank you GOD for bringing him into our life, over the last years in both a Late Model and a Southwest Tour car John brought spice to our life. We, both, will dearly miss him on the track and at home. GOD Speed
• Brandon Whitt & all crewmembers of Cleanline Racing
  Our deepest sympathy to the John Baker family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. This is our first year in the southwest tour and the short amount of time we knew john he was greatly respected by the entire Cleanline racing team. Again, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
• From the Star Nursery race team, #70 car
  To the Family and Crew of John Baker: All of our thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with you.
• Neil & Sherry Godfrey, and everyone at Yerf-Dog Fun Karts.
  Our hearts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and crew of John Baker. We always looked forward to walking over to John’s hauler and visiting with John and Tracy. John always would make you feel right at home when you went over to visit with his team. There are no words to express how sorry we are. May God bless Johns family and friends and help them get through this troubled time.
• Burry Dolbeare
  My sincerest condolences to the friends and family of John Baker.
• Mark Rose England
  God Bless You When tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today, while thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you, And each time you think of me I know you'll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand, And said my place was ready in heaven far above and that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye, for all life, I'd always thought I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for and so much yet to do, it seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you . I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday I thought just for awhile I'd say good bye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, for emptiness and memories would take the place of me. And when I thought of worldly things that I'd miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through heaven's gate, I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiles at me, from His great golden throne, He said, " This is eternity and all I've promised you". Today for life on what is past but here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last, and since each day's the same day, there's no longing for the past. But you have been so faithful, so trusting, so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. But you have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts without me. don't think we're far apart. for everytime you think of me, I'm right here in your heart
• JIM PASQUIN "HOFFA" Motorsports
  Rest In Peace~~ JOHN BAKER ~~We all will miss you so much! Your quick wit and fast--verbal--funny returns! Your Awesome Perfection, Preparation and Showmanship of your Self, Family, Business, & Race Team... JOHN I know would love to be remembered for all the "Great Times" an every one close with him to be comfortable as possible at a time like this. As he left all of us "DOING WHAT HE LOVED in HONORABLE STYLE" I speak for all the "TEAM" when better trying to describe "JOHN BAKER" by looking at all the many flags of the "raceway flagman". First thing that might come to mind is the "checker flag". Yes "JOHN" lived his life daily as a "WINNER" the "CHECKER FLAG" could show that but for "JOHN" that would be to FINAL...... As "JOHN'S" influence and great attitude and accomplishments will go on with us always! We all know the "YELLOW FLAG" MEANS CAUTION and yes "JOHN" took precautions! We know the "BLUE & YELLOW" means move over we know that has no comparison to any of "JOHNS LIFE" except his consideration for others. "BLACK & RED FLAGS" were never in his life because we all know "GREEN FLAG" means "GO! GO! GO! GO!"....... and that is how "JOHN BAKER" has always lived life an will continue to ~ "GO! GO! GO! GO!" with us in our "HEARTS & MINDS" and be used as an "EXAMPLE & INSIPRATION" for all of us to "KEEP ON GO'N" GOD be with everyone right now as we all think of "JOHN" and his "GREAT FAMILY and FRIENDS". "BAKER MOTORSPORTS" AN~~~~~~~~~~~~~
• Craig and Melody Raudman
  We would like to extend our deepest sympathys to Johns family, crew members and friends. John was a good friend. We will always remember John as being an extremely hard worker, and enthusiastic father and a man with a passion for racing. We respect John for his persistance in becoming succussful in business. John was very meticulous about his race cars and that showed in the way the cars were prepared and maintained. John helped me alot in my business, his advice and loyalty will never be forgotten. John was a wonderful person to be around on or off the race track. Whether the results were good or bad, you would always find a smile on John Bakers face. We will miss John greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Johns family in this trying time. If there is anything at all that we can do, please do not hesitate to contact us.
• John and Betty Martin #21swt
  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. John was a very nice person with a quick smile for everyone.
• The BayPac Racing Family
  To John Baker’s family, friends and crew, Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. God Speed, John.
• Performance Motorsports Winston West # 77
  Our prayers and condolences go out to the Baker Family. Our team will keep John and his family and friends in our prayers. May the Lord comfort you in this time of need.
• McKean Motor Sports - Eddy, Lynnette & Crew
  To the Family, Friends and Southwest Racing community- We would like to extend our condolences to everyone this tragedy has touched. We know the passing of someone you know, is hard to endure. Just know... our hearts are heavy but are filled with love and concern, for the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you the strength do endure this very trying time. John... you will be greatly missed but never far from our hearts.
• Jerry Marsh
  My deepest sympathy to the Baker family and crew. John was a great man with a very positive attitude at all times. Never once did I see John without a smile on his face no matter what situation he was in. He will be greatly missed in the racing community and will always be remembered. God Bless you John and to your family.
• Yeager Motorsports
  To the Family and Friends of John Baker: We did not have the privilege of knowing John, but in the Racing Community, when we lose one of our own it deeply touches us all. To John's Wife and Family we wish to express our deepest sympathy.
• Dave and Renee Farr Motorsports Photography
  We want to send our sincere sympathy to John's family and team. We will really miss him.
• Bruce Bechtel and Becky McBride
  To John Baker's Family and crew. We are so sorry. we can't imagine the lose you feel, but know we are hear for you. thank you for sharing a special person with us. Please call if there is anything you need. Our continued prayers will be with you daily.
• Winston West #23
  LETTER FROM HEAVEN To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say... but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay. I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above. Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight. Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night. That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through, God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you." It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on. I need you here badly; you're part of my plan. "There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man." God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do. And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you. And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight. God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night. When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years, because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears. But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain. I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned. But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand. But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er. I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before. There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb; but together we can do it by taking one day at a time. It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too... that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you. If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain, then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain." And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile, knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile. So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low, just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go. When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind; I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind. And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free, remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me. On behalf of the entire Ash Racing Team, our condolences go out to the family and friends of John Baker. A few of us were there that fateful night and wish to express our heartfelt sadness for the loss of a fellow human being and member of this extended racing community. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless everyone who is personally enduring such a tragedy as well as all those affected by it in any way.
• KTRACINGNASCAR.COM and Caili Wilson
  To the Baker Family, his Crew, and friends, We want to express our condolences to you. John loved racing and everything to do with it. He will missed at the track. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. God Bless..
• #23 Dan Holtz and everyone at Thompson Motorsports
  To the family of John Baker, I am a new driver in the SWS this year and did not have a chance to get to know John very well, however in the few times I did speak with him he was friendly and kind. Many people that I know speak very highly of John as a person and he will be missed.
• Rachel Phillips
  My name is Rachel Baker Phillips, I am John's daughter from his first marriage. Circumstances have not allowed us to be real close the last few years. Everyone writes of his racing and of the tour. I will write of the man who raised me. John was an extraordinarily ambitious man, he gave new meaning to the word perfectionist. There is no one better at his work than him. He taught me the importance of taking good care of things. He gave me stability. When things were rough, he provided words of wisdom and taught me how to be resilient. I was recently married and had sat down and had a long talk with him about life before hand. He was expecting twins and he was looking forward to the opportunity to do things even better as a father. My heart is heavy. No human is perfect and we all wish we could have done things differently in life. I am sorry for his boys that they will never get to know the dad I knew or even a better version of him. I am sorry for his new family and his old. He will be greatly missed by so many people, even the ones you'll never hear from or don't know.
• The Nikolai Family #98
  To John's Family, friends and crew, May the love of each other and our all mighty God help bring you peace at this most challenging time. May you find some comfort knowing John touched so many lives, for that there is much gratitude. We pray for all of you for strength and perseverance. May we all be a bit more loving in our living in memory of John.
• Ted, Tim, JR, Mitchel, Tom
  Thank you for all your help Saturday night at Irwindale John. Being a team based out of Tucson, we feel like we've lost a teammate. On behalf of everyone at JR Patton Racing, you will be missed.
• Tim
  Maybe it's that familiar Marlboro type fire suit that he's wear so proudly with Mid-State Trucking written on it. Maybe it's that cool hair style. Maybe it's the glasses or even his mustache. Maybe it's the white car with a red number 18. Maybe it's the smile he'd carry while walking through the pits. I guess maybe I'll miss everything about him. Being from Tucson, I've had the opportunity to watch John in many races. Everything from Super Late Models at Tucson Raceway Park to Southwest Tour and Winston West at PIR. He always shows up with the cleanest cars and the best equipment. He's a first class guy and will be missed. Save us a pit stall in heaven John.
• Bob Butcher, MRO Chaplain for the Northwest Series
  I always hurry to Racingwest when I arrive home from the Northwest Series race so I can check up on my many friends racing with the Southwest and Winston West and see how they did. Arriving late Monday night, I was devestated by the news of John's accident. My heart goes out to Robin, John's family and the Team. Please know my family and I are praying for you and for God's peace and comfort that surpasses all understanding through this situation. Please do not hesitate to contact us if I can be any assistance to you during this time ...especially if there is someone here in the Northwest I may help. I am truly going to miss spendng time with John as I always did at Phoenix or anywhere else we raced as NW & SW together each year. I treasured our friendship.

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