Patrick Joseph Baker, Jr. entered eternal rest on 20 October 2011 after a brief illness. Paddy was born in Brooklyn, New York on 15 January 1936 to Patrick J. Baker, Sr. of Ardnagreevagh and Bridget King Baker of Cleggan, County Galway, Ireland. He had attended Xavier High School and served his country for two years as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division.
Paddy married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Lee" Meany, in 1963. As devoted parents of seven children, their marriage and family were the center and guiding force of their lives.
For 39 years, Paddy met the beverage needs of New Yorkers of all walks of life as a bartender at PJ Clarkes in Manhattan, where his charm, wit, superior knowledge of sports trivia, and flare for debate made him a memorable and beloved figure in New York nightlife.
In retirement, Paddy was an enthusiastic reader, interested in a broad spectrum of topics. He generously shared his learnings with friends, acquaintances, and anyone he believed could benefit. He was blessed to have his retirement years to spend with his grandchildren.
Paddy was an avid Boston Red Sox fan since 1947. He was a catcher in sandlot ball in Brooklyn, NY and, for several years, he managed a softball team in Hopewell Junction, NY.
In addition to his wife, Paddy is survived by his siblings Anna Marie of Brooklyn, New York, Peter of Haworth, New Jersey, and Michael also of Brooklyn. He was predeceased by his sister Mary Boutross of Boca Raton, Florida in 1989. Also surviving are his loving children Annmarie Baker, Bridget and Robert Kleinertz, Drs. Patrick and Tracy Baker, Cathleen Baker and Michael Goldberg, Denise and Mike Gasparri, Dr. Peter and Katherine Baker, and Elizabeth Baker and Matthew Fogarty; and his grandchildren Erin Kleinertz, Kerry Kleinertz, Collin Baker, Bobby Kleinertz, Ashlyn Baker Goldberg, Michael Baker Gasparri, Sean Baker Goldberg, and Shea Thomas Baker; and several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.
As a member of St. Columba Church in Hopewell Junction since 1970, Paddy's faith, family, and Irish heritage were sources of great strength and pride.
Calling hours will be on Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at noon at St. Columba Church, 835 Route 82, Hopewell Junction followed by military honors. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
For driving directions or to send the family an online condolence please visit www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.