The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING DONALD BAKER
______
HON. H. MORGAN GRIFFITH
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise in honor of Clintwood, Virginia's mayor, Donald Baker, who died on October 7, 2021, at the age of 83. Mr. Baker was a dedicated and longtime public servant.
Mr. Baker served the town of Clintwood for over three decades. He was first elected to the town's council in 1980 and served as the mayor since 1988. He was spoken very highly of by his colleagues for his enduring generosity to the community. He was a great representative for the citizens of Clintwood. He was attentive to the community's concerns and addressed them with compassion and integrity.
During his time in service, he worked diligently to build coalitions to obtain grants and funding for community improvement projects. He was well known for governing by conservative financial values. During his 41 years of service, he kept the provision of affordable goods and services as a top priority for him. He was esteemed by colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Mr. Baker was known as a friend to many and held a strong voice in the region.
Outside of his work in the public service, he worked and operated in the coal industry for many years. He also served as a Bank Director at several banks in the region up until his retirement. And he was a member of the Army Reserve Forces serving at rank of Sergeant.
Even in his free time, Mr. Baker still dedicated his time to helping others. For over 60 years he volunteered at every level of Little League baseball and softball. He tirelessly worked with school leaders and coaches to support Clintwood athletics and their children.
Mayor Baker was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Ann Anderson; his parents, James Garfield Baker and Nell Arrington Baker; and his brothers, Harold Baker, Carl Baker, and Marvin Baker.
He is survived by his two sons, Greg Baker and his wife Lora, and Mike Baker; his granddaughter, Emily Ann Baker Dressner; grandson Thomas Gregory Baker; and one great-grandson, John Mark Dressner. I offer my condolences on the loss of this good man and great leader.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 179
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