Baldwin, John O. 75, a retired academic counselor at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University passed away November 13, 2013 at home surrounded by his family. John was born in Merrickville, NY son of the late Marion and Clarence Baldwin. He honorably served in the U.S. Air force and was a graduate of the University of Alabama. After graduation, John worked as a flight instructor and crop duster. In 1975 he moved to Florida and began his career at Embry Riddle until his retirement in 2000. John was a man of great faith and was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach. He served as a Deacon, taught Sunday school and Bible study. He was an violinist who took pleasure in performing in the church orchestra. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 45 years, Kathleen, brother; Wayne and his wife Sarah; nephew; Andrew; niece Beth Bartlett and several great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters; Janice Carmody and Frances Baldwin. Friends may call Saturday 10-11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach 118 N Palmetto Ave. Funeral services will follow at 11:00a.m. Burial with military honors will be in Volusia Memorial Park, Ormond Beach. Donations may be made in his memory to the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach, Building fund. Condolences may be shared at www.volusiamemorialfunerals.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
January 5, 2014
Sunya Harriman
Kathy, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing! He was a wonderful husband and friend to you, and such a Godly example to so many. (We visited Al and Mary Waters after Christmas, and as we caught up on FBC, they told me.) I pray God's comfort and strength to surround you. With much love and hugs, Sunya
November 22, 2013
Cheryl Taft
Mrs. Baldwin,
I am so sorry to hear about your beloved husband. I will never forget the love you both had for each other that I witnessed when he was at the nursing home. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
November 19, 2013
Frank Fletcher
Mr. Baldwin
You where always a positive, down to earth, monotone person that never raised his voice but always got his point across. You will never be forgotten. I can see a ice cold coca cola and not think of you. Love you Mr. B
November 19, 2013
Dr . Vanessa Harvey-Lents
Thank you so much Mr Baldwin. Your family will be proud to know how many young lives now adults you have touched. With love and and gratitude.
DR. Vanessa Harvey-Lents, Darren M. Harvey and Rosa L. Davis.
November 18, 2013
Inger Scott
Dear Mr. Baldwin,
You were such a warm, kind and gentle hearted man. I thank God for the chance to know you. Thank you for all that you shared with ERAU Upward Bound. You will truly be missed...
November 18, 2013
Spanky Gary
I knew Mr. Baldwin from the Upward Bound Program. He was always the tall, kind, gentle, soft spoken, even-keeled person. He cared very much for the well being of others. Willing to listen and help anyone anyway he could. I was fortunate to have known him. R.I.P. Mr. Baldwin.
November 16, 2013
Shannon Atkins
Mr. Baldwin, Thanks for everything you did for the ERAU Upward Bound Program. May God be with your family.
November 16, 2013
Carol Grandinetti
Kathleen: I was saddened to hear of the passing of John. We worked together for 17 years in Upward Bound and he will be missed by all of us. I know that his strong faith in the Lord helped him when he needed it the most. Please stay strong and remember that God is on your side.
Carol Fitzpatrick/Carol Grandinetti
November 16, 2013
November 16, 2013
Sarah Kidd
Dear Uncle John,
I first emailed you when I was 12 years old. You didn't have to respond -- you could have ignored your pesty little great niece if you really wanted to, but you didn't. You replied, and your enthusiasm and interest in getting to know me sparked such joy in my young life. Every single day I emailed you and every single day you emailed me back. I wrote to you about life on the farm, about my schooling, my music, my interests and silly dramas, and through all of those things you made me feel as if I was truly a unique and interesting person. You made me feel important. You never belittled me or talked above me; you always brought things down to my level and then in turn brought me up to yours. Never once did you let on to the fact that I was bombarding you with novel after novel disguised in email form (even though I know I was).
You told me stories about your childhood in New York State -- about school and church and home. You told me of the Air Force (and you bragged a little, too, by the way... but that is okay). I learned about your years at Moody Bible Institute. You told me about when you first spotted Kathleen and how beautiful she was. You shared how nervous you were when you first asked her out, and then you shared how shocked and surprised and happy you were when she said "Yes!" when you asked her to marry you. Your bits of advice were charming and endearing: you told me the way to a man's heart was through his stomach, and then you suggested that I get to working on that if ever I wanted to get myself a good husband. You always wrote me on Thursdays after sailing at the river and you would give me a full update on the happenings at the sailing club -- even the "too wet" days that involved more swimming than sailing. I also read your stories about crop dusting and how you sometimes had to dodge power lines and trees while in the air. You told me about your favorite airplanes and you sometimes even bored me with some of the details only a man could appreciate in a piece of machinery. I never told you that, though. Never. You see, you once told me that another way to a man's heart is to talk about what interest him and so, like a smart girl, I quickly learned what those interest were for you. I figured if you could listen to me talk about girly things like my hair and my friends and my little hobbies, then I could at least listen to you talk about an airplane (or the lawn mower, or your latest diet plan, or your need to be at your best "fighting weight" .... ha).
Emails, pictures, phone calls, cards, gifts... you name it and it traveled back and forth from Virginia to Florida. You never missed my birthday and I made it a point to never miss yours. During the years I wrote you, I faced some really tough things and life got kind of messy. I knew that even if I didn't tell you details, you would still be an encouragement to me just by being there. And you were. On my good days and on my bad days I knew one thing for certain: I could always look forward to writing my Uncle John. When you knew I was struggling and even hurting, you offered prayers, scripture verses, sweet comfort and godly advice. When you knew I was happy and excited and facing new opportunities and challenges, you were right there to encourage me on to better and brighter things. When I joked, you joked right with me. When I out-smarted you or got to the punch line first (if that ever really happened...) you were the first to say, "You got me there, Sarah. You got me."
States away you watched me grow and mature and become the woman I am today. I grew up and you grew older, yet in the midst of life and its changes I never grew apart from you. I thought at times our friendship would fade away and eventually die down, but it didn't. I graduated high school and went to college and in a way, you did, too, right with me. You heard all about it. You listened when I complained about a bad grade or vented over frustrating classes and overwhelming assignment. You told me over and over how proud you were and you constantly kept my spirits up with your positivity. It was during those high school and college days that we both learned to adjust to longer gaps between emails, but I tell you what... there wasn't a week that would go by that I would not finally come to a point where I just had to email you.
I could have never dreamed up a story of such true friendship like the one God blessed me with. I never realized the kind of friendship we had until I learned your health was fading. I never realized how much I truly cared until I was faced with the fact that you weren't always going to be there for me. When I learned just how fatal you diagnosis was, all of those years finally climaxed into something I never knew I'd get to experience. You see, within me -- years ago -- a seed had been planted and watered. A seed of Christian love. A seed of Christ-honoring compassion. You put that seed there. Email after email, you taught me what friendship could be. And it was through your sickness that our friendship finally blossomed into something so pure and real that it overwhelmed me with a need to be there for you. You told me while I laid by your hospital bed during your final days that, "The greatest of all things in this life is love." Through knowing you and being there with you during your final days, I can now agree full-heartedly with that statement. I found true happiness by giving all I could to help you. I found myself the most content I had ever been when being right beside you until your very last breath.
Within a week's time I met you for the first time ever and I had to say goodbye. I've never felt such joy and heartache in all my life. During your suffering you never lost your care and concern and ability to minister. As I laid by your side, you asked me about my beliefs and my fears and if I had ever truly lost a person I loved. You offered me comfort and peace and you told me with full assurance that I would be okay. You talked to me about church and Christianity and my walk with the Lord. I talked to you about Heaven and told you how envious I was of you getting to see it first. You asked about my future -- about the details of my wedding day that you would never see, about my plans that were to go beyond your living days, and about the life ahead of me that I would have to face without you. You told me to talk and you laid there and listened. You never once lost your sense of humor through all that you went through. Every chance you got you were teasing me and winking and smiling at me. You laughed at my silly jokes and you cried at my obvious heartache.
In those final days, you asked that I stay with you and watch over you. In all my life I have never given so much and emptied myself to the extent I did while with you. Yet, I can also say that in all my life I have never been so fulfilled and alive inside. Your final days made such a huge impact on me as a young Christian woman. I found strength I never knew I had. I found peace I thought was beyond my read. And because of you, I experienced something far beyond amazing: I experienced the beauty of true friendship.
There are words you spoke to me that will forever be engraved in my mind, but more importantly than that, you will forever be engraved on my heart. To me, you were indeed my great uncle. But you were also a grandfather I never thought I'd get to have and a best friend that I will forever cherish. I thank God for allowing me to be a part of your amazing life here on this Earth. I know Heaven is truly a sweeter place with you there.
Love always and forever,
Sarah Marie
November 16, 2013
Larry Williams
Truly a great man of God. I will never forget those Upward Bound days and advice given by Mr. Baldwin. Thank you so much for the man that you are. Your legacy will live on in all of us that you touched.
November 16, 2013
Amy Kmetz
I knew John Baldwin as a man of great faith, commitment to his students and unfailing integrity. Upward Bound students were most fortunate for their association with Mr. Baldwin. His lifetime of Good works will surely be rewarded by our Lord. I offer prayers of comfort for his family; I am sure he is at peace. THANK YOU, JOHN BALDWIN, for everything.
November 16, 2013
Sandra Stuart
Dear Kathy and family, this candle represents a light from above. A light meant to comfort us in sorrow, guide us in the future, and light the way for us to Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus :).... John was always "ahead" of the light. Only wish I had have the "nerve"?? To ask him for a duet... Myself on the piano and he with the violin like my maternal grandmom used to do when I was a child! Much Love, Sandy Stuart!! :)
November 16, 2013
Larry and Lorene Larson
Kathie, I was so shocked in learning of John's passing. My hope is that you will be comforted by his strong stand for the Lord and his witness by the life he lead. Know Lorene and I wish you the very best knowing you have a loving church family to lean on during this sad time. I am proud of the fact I could call John my friend.
November 16, 2013
Abbie Davis
Mr. Baldwin, you will be missed. I often thought of you over the years. I remember your encouragement as an Upward Bound student. Those years were wonderful years and I've learned so much. You not only motivated us educationally, but more importantly Spiritually. Though you may have never spoke the words, but your Light did and forever will shine bright. The Father is well pleased with you. I've made some important and successful decisions in my life because of your leadership. And I thank you! What a wonderful man of faith. Abbie G. Davis Upward Bound class of 80'
November 16, 2013
Mr. Baldwin touched many young lives through the Upward Bound program at ERAU. I am blessed to have been one of them. Terri Thomas Upward Bound, 1984-1987
November 16, 2013
Aunt Kathleen, I'm so sorry to hear the news of Uncle John's passing. It somehow doesn't seem possible. I have so many fond memories of "spring break" vacations with both of you. Uncle John was the best and made every visit special. He was such a good sport about everything. I treasure the memories and regret that Daytona Beach is too far from Virginia Beach to visit as often as I would have liked. Facebook made it fun to keep in touch and Uncle John quickly learned and navigated the "new way" of keeping in touch. We have shared pictures and laughs over the past few years that way. I'm going to post some pictures from the '70's of one of my many visits that I think you'll remember and enjoy. Sending much love and prayers your way. You were married to a wonderful man. I loved him very much!!
Your loving niece,
Bev Dideum & family
Virginia Beach, Virginia
November 16, 2013
John Pamblanco
John was a remarkably soft spoken, gentle giant. I admired him as a First Baptist hero of the faith.
November 16, 2013
Allyson Kaye Brown
Mr. Baldwin was an awesome man. His kind heart and genuine love for God showed in his dedication to me and other Upward Bound students. I remember all the saturdays that he drove the Upward Bound bus to pick us up. He was a gentle soul with us rowdy kids, lol. R.I.P Mr. Baldwin.
November 16, 2013
It really saddens me to learn that one of our heros have left us! Mr. Baldwin was a true.... role model & earth angel that guided me & other classmates in Upward Bound. I'll always remember his kindness, calmness, caring/loving ways for others,& also his contagious, nice smile! We love you & R.I.P. my teacher!!! Carleaner Jordan aka "DeeDee" Hamm
November 15, 2013
Linda Miller-White
Dear Kathy and the entire Baldwin family,
We are deeply sorry to hear about John. He was one of kindest of all the gentlemen I ever knew. May our loving Lord Jesus bless you with the strength, faith, and encouragement you need to go on. John would want it that way. What peace it is to know that John is now safely in the arms of his beloved Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ and that you will see him again. Bless you all, Linda Miller-White
November 15, 2013
Robin Sims
To the Baldwin family. John was a great person and will truly be missed. Robin Sims and family.
November 15, 2013
Harry Smith
John was one of the greatest men I knew. He helped me out tremendously during high school, and always offered direction to us...myself, my family, and many of my friends. I am proud to have known John. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. We have lost a great man.
November 15, 2013
Ann Culley Foley
Kathy, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I'm glad I got to see you both at Easter. I'll remember John as a soft-spoken man, always ready with a warm 'hello'. May God bless you with His peace, strength and comfort today and in all the days ahead.
November 15, 2013
Janet Reed-Hendrix
John will surely be missed especially in the orchestra choir area. He also will be sorely missed in our Sunday school class and seeing him walk around the church, Even with two canes and wheelchair he was always always faithful.
November 15, 2013
Roy Kidd
Aunt Kathleen , our prayers are for God to give you the strength you need in this very rough time. I'm comforted in knowing John is now with my Dad and many others that have gone before us. So glad Sarah could be there with you and John during his final days here , it seams as though that time was very good for him. Again may god be with you and everyone there.
November 14, 2013
Aunt Kathleen- words cannot express the Love we had for Uncle John, he was always smiling and always had an encouraging word even when we really did not deserve one. Danielle & Ashley adored him and will miss him very much as will Andy & I. You had 45 wonderful years together and may the Lord give you strength and comfort when you need it most. We Love you and are here if you need us. Andy & Shelly
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