David Lorden Baker

1957 - 2013

David Lorden Baker obituary, 1957-2013, Thousand Oaks, CA

David Baker Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 30, 2013.

Dr. David Lorden Baker, Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon, passed away at home in Thousand Oaks on Tues., Jan.29th, with his family at his side. His final adventure was his battle with brain cancer.
David was born on Dec. 5th, 1957 to Dr. Keith and Ellen Baker in Long Beach, Ca.- the third child of 9 and first son. He learned from his parents the importance of family, how to dream and to work hard for those dreams.
His first challenge occurred in 1977 while a missionary, trying to teach in Spanish to the immigrants of Mexico the importance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ while serving in the Texas San Antonio Mission. While overlooking the city of Eagle Pass, TX, he committed to love them and serve them. He succeeded where no one else had. His ability to speak Spanish like a native assisted him here and the rest of his life.
To achieve great things, it is easier with someone by your side to inspire, motivate, and who will jump in when you don't want to. David was fortunate to have his best friend, lover, and eternal companion to do just that. Leslie and David were married on November 10th, 1979 in the Los Angeles Temple. Their teamwork and chemistry are matchless. They have raised four wonderful children, David Lorden Jr., Eric, Kelly, and Nicholas to each dream big dreams and also the importance of family.
Prior to college, David worked numerous jobs, such as Construction Framer, Accountant, Mortgage Banker and "Disco-Tech" owner. He applied to the Dental School at the University of the Pacific because it was a three-year, year round program rather than the traditional 4 years. David and Leslie worked hard and was the Valedictorian of his 1987 class. He wanted to challenge himself more, so he spent the next five years at the University of Washington in the Oral Maxillofacial Surgery program, spending the last nine months training in the Netherlands.
He opened his first Oral Surgery practice in Lancaster, California then a second office in Tehachapi. Looking to follow his promptings, he moved his family to Las Vegas, NV.
Missing the California beaches and good weather, he moved back to California and settled in Thousand Oaks, joining the practice of Courtyard Facial & Oral Surgery in Camarillo. Looking for more adventures, he then opened the Valencia Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery/Implant Center in the Santa Clarita Valley, then another office in Palmdale. He was a very talented surgeon, gave lectures and seminars on his specialty and was a published author in many professional journals.
David's real talent and passion was in serving, mentoring, and inspiring others, all throughout his life. While still in Residency, he and Leslie invited the future Oral Surgeon, Dr. Angel Esperanza from Spain to live with them for a year, mentoring and teaching him in English and his native language, Spanish. David paid for and took teams of Surgeons to the small villages of Honduras and the hills of Peru as the lead of the Cleft Lip and Palate Team, partnering with the Rotary Club, serving the underprivileged children and inspiring other Doctors to do the same. He was the only Oral Surgeon to repeatedly donate his services at the Eisner Pediatric Medical Center at UCLA. He helped build and maintain an Orphanage in Tijuana, where he and his Baker family spent many Christmas' giving.
While his profession was very important to him, his most important role was that of being a Husband and Father. For the last seven years, he has also loved being a Grandfather. David Lorden and Becky have Alexis and Blake. Eric and Joanna have Cruise and McLayne. Having family around and doing activities with family was imperative to David. He taught them that if your dreams don't scare you, you're not dreaming enough. He loved speed of many kinds. He jumped out of helicopters to experience virgin snow. He loved to fish, and fished all around the world. Surgeon by day, David was an eclectic farmer by night. He harvested avocados, lavender, honey and lavender oil. He loved his John Deere tractor. His legacy will be seen in the lives of his children, his grandchildren and in the lives of the many people he served and inspired the world over.

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March 5, 2014

Diana Duran

I had the pleasure to work with Dr Baker and he was the most amazing human being I have ever met. My heart is filled with sorrow and I will never forget his kindness, his love for his family. He will be missed.

August 7, 2013

Bridgett Lee

I just heard about the passing of Dr. Baker and my heart just sank. No I'm not a friend, or close friend of the family, only a very satisfied patient who was very taken back by his gentle and passionate concern and care of his patients. I had NEVER had such a wonderful experience sitting in a dental chair, and everyone around me was amazed at my speedy recovery and the fact that my jaws never swelled from having my wisdom teeth taken out! I swear I must have told everyone I came in contact with to go see Dr. Baker if they need their wisdom teeth out and I had told my kids when it's time for theirs to come out he would be the only person I would trust to do it. To his wife and family I can just see all the love you all shared which is evident in the pictures, and I know you were a very close and loving family. To the kids I pray that God is covering you all and is getting you through on a day to day basis because it's very difficult to lose a parent at a young age. I know because I lost my mom to cancer and it was very sudden and I felt this huge void in my life that not even my husband could fix. It was only through the grace of God that I was able to cope with the death of my mother without drugs and alcohol which is so easy to fall back on to take the pain away but, know that you are not alone and he is with each of you every step of the way! I don't why I'm writing such a long note to complete strangers, but I felt compelled to speak what's on my heart and say your father, husband, and brother was a great man, and I'm sorry for your loss. Stay strong for him. Be Blessed and cherish the memories....B. Lee

February 19, 2013

Joe and Karen Neff

We cherish the good times we had together, the laughter we shared, the long talks and just being able to associate with such a great man! And especially to call David our friend!! We love you dear Baker family. Thanks for the memories.

February 19, 2013

Our love and prayers to the Baker family. We miss David and are honored by having known him. We miss his presence in our lives. Carol and Steve Andersen

February 19, 2013

Kim Williams

Baker Family,
I will always remember when I "entered" the Tolson Family through marrying Calvin, the blessings of being cousins with such amazing people! Though we did not see all of you much (Cindy and Jill a little more when we were in Utah) it was always so fun to be with you. I do remember always noticing something very special between David and Leslie. The relationship you had was a very unique one and you are so blessed to have that forever. Our thoughts and prayers have been with you and will be as you continue this journey as an eternal family. Know that you are loved by many here and on the other side( as so much of our family is there now). Be aware that you are in our family and personal prayers and though we are not physically close, our hearts are close and we love you!
Calvin, Kim and kids

February 7, 2013

Malorie Smith

I worked for Dr. Baker for 2 1/2 years. He was the most gentle, kind, selfless doctor you would ever find out there. He was the best boss I ever had at any job. I pray for his family that they will find comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering and you will see him again one day. My thoughts and prayers go to all of the Baker Family.

February 7, 2013

The Bacchus Family

We just heard of Dr. Davids passing. He was a wonderful man who could make you smile even while being told you needed surgery. He not only was a gifted doctor but also a kind and compassionate healer who took time to care. His lively personality was a joy. We will remember him always and our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.

February 6, 2013

Lydia Stevens

Mrs.Baker
You're in my prayers. I am so sad for you. Our nurses here at P.V. are devasted to hear of his passing. Be well. Stay blessed.

February 4, 2013

Terri Berry

Dr. Baker removed all four of my children's wisdom teeth. He was very kind, professional and personable. I knew he had four children too. My deepest condolences to your family over the loss of this very nice man.

February 4, 2013

Mari Porter

The over-arching feeling I have about David is that he is (I'm sure this trait continues with him still) very earnest in all his endeavors. He never does anything without giving, and feeling full purpose of heart. His motives and demeanor are always pure and charitable and accompanied by that winning smile!
A favorite memory is of his always wonderful, insightful, and knowledgeable comments in Sunday School; they never failed to invite the spirit, and enlighten the discussion.
But most important of all, his most valuable legacy, is the way he cherished Leslie. It was evident in everything he said and did. There is no doubt they are each other's best friend, truest love, and deepest soulmate, and will be madly in love with each other throughout the Eternities. Together, David and Leslie are the perfect, and I mean perfect, example of a Celestial Marriage.
To honor David, we will all try to be more like him. May God bless and comfort his wife and family. We love you!

February 4, 2013

Lydia Stevens

To the Baker family,
The heart remembers most what it has loved best.
May memories comfort you and bring you peace in this time of sorrow.
I know Dr.Baker because he operated at our hospital, Pleasant Valley.
He was a sweet and gentle man and a good surgeon. I only knew him on a professional level but as i read this guest book, i realize what a truly incredible human being he was and I'm sorry i didn't get to know "that person".
Nevertheless, I'm honored to have known Dr.Baker and will miss him dearly.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Lydia Stevens
P.V. O.R.

February 4, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I went to high school with David and remember his kindness and beautiful smile. Robin Wharry Shelnut

February 3, 2013

Christian Lassen

I just heard about Dr. Baker's passing. I am very sorry to hear it. I only met him a few times, but knew some of his family and cared very much for them. I got to know him more indirectly. I hope his family is able to find all the comfort they want and need right now.

February 3, 2013

Chris Landon

I was fortunate to meet Dr Baker when he accompanied us to Honduras. His kindness and compassion toward children and families who needed comfort and his skills was inspiring for it was delivered without asking for anything in return. I know he was proud of his family and wanted to make certain they were all launched safely.
May peace be with his family.

February 3, 2013

To the Baker Family,

David Baker was a caring and compassionate man. I often referred patients to him and there was never a complaint, rather there were positive comments about the time he had taken and the empathy he had shown. He will be missed by the professional community.

He also encouraged my son, Paul Peterson, to enter dentistry and offered to write him a letter of recommendation. After Paul's graduation, he continued to follow his career. Dr. Baker was was a man who enjoyed the success of others.

His faith and love of his family was evident in the way he lived his life. He was blessed to know where he came from, why he was here, and where he was going after this earthly life.

May you all be comforted at this time.

Roger M. Peterson D.D.S and Pat

February 3, 2013

Pamela Moise

I am so thankful to have had him to help me thru a difficult time last February,he was professional ,kind and caring man. My heart aches after knowing him for only a moment in time,I send my prayers to his family and friends who's loss is enormous .Your strong Faith will get you thru this loss,until you meet again..

February 3, 2013

Esther Jurado

so sorry to hear of your loss, he was a nice man,he did surgery on my son fixed his jaw broken on both sides,very nice may he rest in peace

February 3, 2013

Rodney Wells

So very sorry to hear this news. I attended Moorpark College with David. Looked up to him in High School. I recall mourning a similar tragedy with his Uncle Greg. My heart goes out to his family.

February 3, 2013

William Mounday

You were a wonderful man and a fine
doctor. I was fortunate to have had
your medical care. I will always remember
you. Thank you.

February 2, 2013

JoAnn Stewart

To all the Baker family;

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow and loss. But gratitude fills our souls for the example your entire family have been and continue to be to us all. With loving and fond memories of life in Simi with the Bakers. How blessed we are to have known you David, and your wonderful parents and siblings. Profound examples to us all, I echo Pres. Ritchie's sentiments, "Bakers are and will always be winners!"
Fondly,
JoAnn Jacob Stewart

February 2, 2013

Tara Bodrero

Posted by Tara Bodrero

February 2, 2013

Tara Bodrero

Unfortunately the only reason I met David is because we share the same brain tumor. Fortunately for me, I was able to meet a man who will have a lifelong impression on me. I see meeting Dr. David Baker as one of the greatest things that has come about because I have brain cancer. I will never forget when I found out he had a glioblastoma. I had met other people who had brain cancer but none with the grade 4. Now I knew there was someone out there who was walking the steps I had previously walked and I was anxious to get in contact with him. I had hesitation because I was only a 22 year old girl and he was an accomplished surgeon. I knew he probably knew more than I did about gilbastomas but I decided to write him anyway. Since that day I have considered David as my GBM friend. We emailed back and forth and I was always so excited to see an email from him in my inbox. At the beginning, I was hoping I could help lift him or help him like others helped me but it seemed like more often he was helping and lifting me. We were able to meet in person this winter and talk face to face. I felt an instant friendship with him. The thing I love most is he shared not only my same cancer but same beliefs in both life and religion. He had been where I had been and it felt so good to have a friend who really truly knew how I felt. I still feel like he is the only one I have met who really knows how I feel. The memory I will forever have of my GBM friend is the feeling I had when I was around him. He made me want to be a better person, a better example, and a more faithful follower of Christ. Meeting David has been a spiritual experience I will cherish the rest of my life. I consider myself lucky to be one of those who were able to experience David's smile and genuine love. He will remain my GBM friend.

February 2, 2013

Steve Gordon

I had some amazing examples as a youth growing up and David Baker tops the list. I will always remember the lessons he taught me. I pray that his good family will feel love and comfort from so many and especially from our Father above. A truly great man, husband, friend, father, and son. They don't come better than David Baker.

Steve Gordon

February 2, 2013

Jim Johnson

I was the home teacher to the Baker family when they lived in Thousand Oaks 3rd Ward. I best remember David for his firm and lively testimony and how he shared it with all he knew. I also remember his commitment to service, that is to share his talents with those in need. And I also remember his love and devotion to his family. Although I'm sure that the Lord has called him home for still another and greater opportunity for service, he and his example will be deeply missed.

February 2, 2013

Charlene and Brittany Sander-Diaz

Dr. Baker you were taken from this earth to soon. You gave of yourself to your family and career. Your kindness to our family showed your true character. Our thoughts are with all of your family. Sorrow is a fleeting emotion, but love is infinite.

February 2, 2013

Debby Wood

I am sorry to hear of David. My prayers go to this wonderful family.

February 2, 2013

Denise Ellis

Leslie and Family....I'm sadden to hear such news...I'll always remember our days opening the Lancaster office and the fun we had. Gods speed...rest in peace.

February 2, 2013

Ronda Mathwin

Dr.Baker will be greatly missed he will be remembered as one of the kindest most caring surgeon I had the pleasure to work with.

February 2, 2013

William Starr M.D.

I will remember him as a man of dignity, passion, and wisdom.
I will remember him as a surgeon of unequaled diagnostic and surgical skills.
I will remember and lament the passing of a friend.

William Starr M.D.

February 2, 2013

Marlund & Shelly Hale

Dear Baker Family,
It seems just yesterday that we were teenagers together. We are saddened at David's passing. The Bakers have always been examples to us and have taught us the ways of our Savior. We hope and pray that the gospel of Jesus Christ will be your strength and comfort at this time. May you know of the love and support of your many friends who share your grief and hold you in their hearts.

January 31, 2013

Jim and Carolyn Ritchie

As tragic a loss as it is to lose such a powerful and faithful man as David, it is an incredible blessing to know that his life was lived without regrets and the family is not having to try and pray him back into the Lord's hands. We know, with confirmation that this good man has gone 'home' and will be preparing a mansion on high for the rest of his family when they decide to join him. How different it is to grieve with the family with that assurance compared to so many funeral services where anxiety hangs in the air due to a life lived below their potential. David and his family have no such worry. He 'will' be there at the gate when and if the rest of us do our part to join him. 56 years lived the way he lived them is far better than 100 years of mediocrity. He was born a Baker, he lived like a Baker and he goes home in customary Baker style - a winner.

January 31, 2013

Lani Lasko

With a heavy heart I am sending prayers of hope to all of you. He was a amazing person and one to look up to. God Blessed you all !

Showing 1 - 32 of 32 results

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