William G. Baker, 76

William "Billy" G. Baker, 76, of Concord, passed away at his home on Aug. 23, 2025, from complications related to COPD and emphysema. He was a man of quiet strength, keen humor, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to those he loved.

Bill was born Nov. 30, 1948, in Concord, the first child of George William Baker and Dorothy Luella Rogers. He was predeceased by both his parents, two sisters, Linda Baker and Pamela Jo Noyes, and his longtime partner Audrey Marie Adair Gilpatrick.

Bill was no stranger to hard work and overcoming obstacles, having spent his teens and early 20s on Roberts’ farm in Northfield, after leaving school early due to irreconcilable differences with administrators. Bill worked various jobs over the years, from sporting goods salesman, upholsterer, Freudenberg NOK, and most recently 23 years of service as the night auditor of the Hampton Inn in Bow. He was a man defined by his strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility.

He thrived on being a source of strength for others and was always eager to connect with new people and hear their stories. His greatest joy was sharing his experience and knowledge, and he served as a trusted mentor to many younger colleagues starting out in their careers and in life.

An avid New Hampshire outdoorsman, Bill enjoyed spending time in the woods, where he found great joy in fishing, hunting, hiking and camping. He was a gifted storyteller and an enthusiastic appreciator of the arts, with an eclectic love of music that spanned from opera to Yoko Ono and System of a Down. His early years on a farm with horses sparked a lifelong passion for horse racing, and he was a true gastronome who delighted in exploring new recipes and flavors from around the world.

Bill is survived by his son, Ross Mitchell Baker of Hood River, Oregon; daughter Stefanie Dunlap Ecuyer of The Woodlands, Texas; his five grandchildren, Aidan, Logan, Finnegan, Hazel and Scout; as well as many nieces and nephews and extended family members.

There will be a celebration of life in the hall of American Legion Post 49 in Tilton, from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4.