In Memoriam: Dennis Eugene Baker Jr.

Dennis Eugene Baker Jr., an Air Force veteran and dedicated food safety professional, passed away Sept. 26. He was 78.

Baker was the first in his family to attend college. He earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in chemistry from Southwest Texas State University. He returned to Southeast Texas State University to receive a master’s degree in public health.

During college, Baker joined the Texas Air National Guard and eventually enlisted in the Air Force, training to be a military pharmacist. Baker served during Operation Desert Storm and retired after 28 years of service, earning the rank of senior master sergeant.

Dennis began his public health and food safety career as a restaurant inspector in Houston, Texas, and later became the bureau chief of food and drug safety for the Texas Department of Health. He was heavily involved in food safety organizations such as the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO), where he served as president, and was involved in early efforts to create a nationally integrated food safety system, as detailed in this 2023 QA magazine feature.

Baker’s AFDO presidency led to his recruitment for the position of associate commissioner of regulatory affairs at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — an interview process that required Senate approval. Baker retired as regional director of the FDA in October 2015. He received many awards and honors for his work at AFDO and the FDA.

Beyond his passion for food safety, Baker spent time volunteering with the American Legion post in Kingsland, Texas, because he strongly believed in supporting veterans. He was a Texas Longhorn and Dallas Cowboys fan.

Baker was a devoted husband to his wife Missy of 52 years until she passed away in 2023. He and Missy are survived by their two daughters, Staci Baker Dement and Carri Baker, along with other loving family members.

A burial service will be held at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 14, at 11:15 a.m. A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Hall in Kingsland, Texas, on Nov. 15, at 2 p.m.

In honor of Baker, people can consider donating to the American Legion post 437. To read more about Baker’s life, visit his obituary.