Donald J Baker, 70, of Vestal, NY (formally Wyalusing, PA), peacefully passed away on December 18th 2022, surrounded by his loved ones at Lourdes Hospital, Binghamton, NY. Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA July 26th, 1952 he is the son of the late Hattie and Roger Sharts.

Donald graduated from Wyalusing Valley High School in 1970 and pursued a career with "VanDemark Logging and Excavating", he later started his own Business; "Baker Logging and Excavating" in 1985, and had a successful career doing what he loved most in life, he used to always says "not everyone can say this, but I love my job".  He later worked as a load operator at Upstate Shredding in Owego, NY where he'd been at for the past 1.5 years.

He was a hardworking, family man with a gentle nature about him and a heart of gold, but also a manly man. He was always going above and beyond for his loved ones, and would even help a stranger in their time of need. His strong work ethic and giving heart was something his family carried on from him, being the positive male role model he was in their lives.

Anyone who knew him, can attest to what a genuine, good man he was, and his family meant more to him than anything in this world.

Donald was predeceased by his brothers; William Sharts, John Sharts, Roger Sharts, and David Sharts.

He is survived by his loving family; his wife of 32 years, Cathie Elliott; his daughters; Kim Baker Clark(Terry) and Jasmine Castro; his grandchildren Meghan Clark, Brittney Clark (Garrett) , Chloe, and Isabella "Bella"; his great grandchildren Ryland and Leyland; his siblings; Ella Bankes (Corey), Pat Kelly, Amy(Doug) Eberlin, Teddy (Anna) Burgess; along with many nieces, nephews,  and wonderful friends.

Private services will be held for immediate family, and a Celebration Of Life to be held at a later date.

"If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever."
—A.A. MILNE

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to CHOP (Child Hunger Outreach Partners) https://www.chopouthunger.org/?mibextid=Zxz2cZ