18/10/2025
Sad news today with the passing of Ronnie Baker the Boy from Bradford.
Ronnie was an icon around the San Remo Bowls Club for many years especially on the social scene.
A raconteur extraordinaire, his tales, real and imagined, from Bradford and beyond, held audiences spellbound and then rolling in laughter time and time again.
He compered most of our social functions. Xmas and Cup nights led by Ron were always memorable. He had the crowd always listening, expecting the unexpected!
He was the first and last Honorary President of the Old Farts Club which was a gathering (of mainly male members and friends) held every Friday night rain, hail or shine. With his sidekick V President the late Bob Saward by his side he would hold court each Friday listening to all the banter and bu****it being spoken around him. He would intervene at appropriate times with a comment or story. Never controversial...always funny.
Ronnie was a useful bowler too with a peculiar style which baffled team mates and opponent alike. His feet always seemed to be pointing in the wrong direction! Strange for most but not for Ron ..he was different! He was a quiet no fuss team mate, good company in the car, on the green and in the bar afterwards.
Ronnie was carer for the love of his life Rita who suffered ill health before she passed some years ago.
A long time resident of San Remo Ronnie moved into care in Cowes a few years back.
Deepest sympathy to the Baker family.
cf
