Scott Baker remembered

The Murray community lost a devoted business advocate when Scott Baker passed away on Dec. 17 at the age of 59. Baker served as the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce President for several years, bringing business and community leaders together to promote economic growth and development in the city.

After working in the mortgage industry, Baker was hired to lead the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce in 2005, and according to those he worked with, he made quite an impact in the community. He was described by many as being honest, forthright and dedicated to helping Murray businesses succeed. Baker also supported other chambers around the county, regularly attending luncheons and events.

“He would build people up and support people and encourage people,” said Jim Hawks, former Murray Chamber board member. “He had such great energy that you wanted to be around him.”

During his time as chamber president, Baker helped organize the first Taste of Murray event that just celebrated its sixth year in November. He was also a big proponent for Murray City events, including the two Babe Ruth World Series held at Ken Price Ballpark, health and safety fairs, and Murray Fun Days. Baker also worked closely with Sheri Van Bibber in developing the Murray Area Youth Chamber of Commerce.

“[Scott] made everyone feel like they were his one and only, and there are very few people like that in the world today,” Van Bibber said. “There are no words for the immense amount of love we all feel for him.”

Baker received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and was a lifetime member of Tau Kappa Epsilon. He enjoyed tailgating before the U’s football games and making jokes about the “team down south.” Baker’s too-hot-to-eat buffalo wings were a staple at tailgating events. He was also a big fan of everything Disney, traveling to Disneyland with friends as often as possible.

His funeral service was well-attended by local business leaders, TKE fraternity brothers, tailgating friends, Disney enthusiasts, and government leaders, including Murray City Mayor Dan Snarr, State Representative Tim Cosgrove and Brian Shiozawa, Senator-Elect for Utah Senate District 8. Baker is survived by his two children and a brother.At the request of his family, friends of Baker were asked to donate to the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce Youth Chamber Scholarship Fund.

“He took every opportunity to have joy in his life,” said his close friend, Donnetta Mitchell. “He laughed and he loved, and he let everybody know they were important to him.”