Benjamin was born in Ravenna, OH to William W. and Martha E. (Coulter) Baker on Sept. 27, 1941 and passed away unexpectedly at his residence in New Castle on June 14, 2022.
Ben was not afraid of hard work, beginning at age eight as a paperboy, delivering papers all over town in his wagon with his cocker spaniel Nippy, and had a work ethic that even a severe tornado could not stop as he maneuvered alone around downed telephone wires in the wee hours of the morning.
By sixteen he worked full-time afternoon turn after school in a
hot rubber factory as a compounder so he could have a brand new car, which he bought on his own. He graduated from Ravenna High School in the class of 1960.
His comprehensive knowledge of rubber, along with his passion for
all trains, especially American Flyer, led him to many decades of working in the industry, and as president of the company, managed and expanded International Track Systems, Inc. for four decades, from Ashtabula then In New Castle, retiring at age 76.
He was a talented train hobbyist whose focus was on refurbishing, repainting and selling forgotten old trains which he transformed into new ones, with a goal that they would be reloved by a new generation. He was meticulous, patient and did this with artistry and success.
He was a very proud veteran of the US Army holding a rank of E-5, and was a contributing member of the American Legion Post #343 and the Eagles club.
Ben was an extremely kind man and a true gentleman. His belief that 'less is more' is a perfect example of his humility and honor. No man better served as good example of what a loving, fullfilling and purposeful life really is all about. He was adored by family and friends and will leave a huge hole in the hearts of all who loved him dearly.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Cindy; three daughters: Julie (Craig) Purnell of Ravenna, OH; Clarissa (Greg) Sinchak of Canfield, OH; and Marissa (Daniel) Reid of New Castle; and eight
grandchildren: Troy, Lara and Brody Tyson; Lucas and Marah Shaffer; Benny Baker; and Brooke and Luke Sinchak.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Loretta Gatwood.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 17th, from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle. A private graveside service will follow.
Memorial contributions may be offered to the Alzheimer's Foundation by visiting www.alzfdn.org.
Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.