Many in Coronado were deeply saddened to learn that Coronado resident David Baker was one of five (four Americans and the pilot) killed in a helicopter crash in Kenya on Sunday. Dave was a businessman, a family man, and full of gregarious and adventurous spirit. Monday evening friends gathered to celebrate his life and many posted fond and happy remembrances of him on social media. A common theme was Dave’s joyful spirit and enriching presence. His good friend, Coronado’s Mayor Richard Bailey, summarized that:
“Dave really was the kind of guy that made everyone he met feel like he was their best friend. He lit up every room he walked into and just had this way about him that made you smile. Always happy. Always positive. And always up for an adventure.”
Mayor Bailey had earlier shared publicly:
“Sad news for our community as dear friend and Coronado resident, Dave Baker, is among the four Americans that died on Sunday evening in a helicopter accident from a remote island in Lake Turkana in northwestern Kenya.
Dave was an amazing family man, businessman, and adventurer. He had an infectious laugh and made friends wherever he went. Dave lived life to the fullest.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Dave’s loved ones, as we all try to make sense out of this tragic event. I will miss Dave terribly.”
Related: 3 San Diego County men among those killed in Kenya helicopter crash (U-T)
