Obituary
Paul William Baker, a cherished resident of Beckenham, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on October 9, 1947, to Peggy and Dennis, Paul was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, colleague, teammate and friend. Despite these many roles, we all know the same Paul, a man whose vibrant spirit, sharp intellect, and boundless kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Paul was the devoted husband to Marion, with whom he shared a remarkable journey through life. Their union was a testament to true partnership, enriching each other's lives and the lives of those around them. Together, they raised three wonderful children (Marc, Gail and Patrick), who were the pride and joy of Paul's life. He imparted to them not only wisdom and love, but also a zest for life that mirrored his own.
Known for his wit and humour, Paul had an incredible ability to brighten any room he entered. His friends and family often fondly recall the laughter and joy he brought into their lives, a testament to his fun-loving nature. Beyond his lightheartedness, Paul was an exceptionally intelligent man, whose keen insights and thoughtful perspectives were invaluable to those fortunate enough to seek his counsel or work alongside him.
In 1975, he joined Callaghan at ohal, an innovative marketing agency that pioneered data analytics in the industry. His vision and leadership shaped the future of marketing and the people he trained, mentored, and inspired throughout his career continue to carry forward his teachings in media agencies, consultancies, and leadership roles across the globe. His influence remains a guiding force in the lives of all those who worked with him.
Paul was a lifelong sports enthusiast, passionate about everything from squash and cricket to swimming and golf. His love for sport went beyond playing, as he travelled the world to attend Lions tours, Cricket World Cups, and Ryder Cup golf tournaments along with debentures at Twickenham and Lords to keep him entertained between tours. Through sport, Paul instilled invaluable lessons in his children, teaching them to always give their best—while upholding fairness, integrity, and empathy. These values were non-negotiable to him, guiding not just his sporting pursuits but every aspect of his life. Whilst this rejection of winning at all costs may have held him back in his own sporting endeavours, it earned him deep warmth and respect from all who knew him.
He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom, cherished by Marion, their three children, and countless friends who considered him family. As they cope with his loss, they find solace in the indelible memories and the profound impact he made on their lives.
Paul William Baker's journey through life may have drawn to a close, but the light he ignited in the hearts of those who knew him will burn brightly forever. In the way he lived and loved, Paul taught us all that life is meant to be embraced with joy, curiosity, and unyielding kindness.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St Christopher’s Hospice, a charity close to Paul’s heart, where his family has seen firsthand the incredible care and support they provide.
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My memories of Uncle Paul are fond and many. As others have said he was fun, kind and intelligent and I always looked forward to seeing him and Marion. We had so many great holidays together and I remember being fascinated and impressed at his butterfly in the pool (I tried to copy and failed), him teaching us everything swimming, him inventing the game of knocking over the water bottles with a ball on the campsite in Saumur and generally making every holiday we had with him and Marion brilliant despite my sometimes stroppy ways!
Later, his and Marion’s generosity with the Portugal villa made it possible for me to make very happy and special memories with my own family, and those will also last a lifetime.
He was the best uncle and I wish I had seen him more in later years but I will always remember him with love.
My thoughts are with Marion, Marc, Gail and Patrick.
Not much did worry Paul.
Brother Mark.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/h2uaXqqu2QXKtN7y6
Paul and Marion have proved on numerous occasions to be the most generous and caring friends and I love you both. It is difficult to think of one without the other but I know that somehow Marion will find a way to move forward without Paul her friend, lover, companion, husband in other words her other half.
The bridge game lasting into the wee hours. Who won? Who knows? Who cares?
The beginning of a very special friendship.
My condolences to Marion, the family and all of the ex Ohal family too.
Paul was always upbeat, positive and fun to socialise with. It was a joy to be in his company and debate the worlds of sport and politics!
Paul was a devoted family man and a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and Celia and I send our love and prayers to Marion, Marc, Gail and Patrick for their irreplaceable loss. However, for sure, all your wonderful memories of Paul’s zest for life will shine through and never fade.
His family and friends will truly miss him but he leaves limitless memories as a fun loving, and very active gentleman.
Donate
St Christopher's is an organisation that offers not only exceptional medical and nursing care but also emotional and psychological support to both patients and their families, ensuring a peaceful and dignified end of life.
Their services over the last year benefitted Paul both physically and mentally through gym and psychology sessions. These made a big difference to both his mobility and outlook on life that we are tremendously grateful for.
The personal connection runs deep for our family, as Paul's daughter, Gail, works there directly with patients like Paul and has seen first-hand the profound impact her efforts have on families like ours . The work they do is invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for the care and kindness they provided to our family during this time.
St Christopher's is a charity. Whilst contracted to provide palliative care services only 40% of its costs come from the NHS, the rest come from charitable donations including gifts in wills and in memorial donations such as this.
Any donation, no matter the size, would be deeply appreciated and will help continue their incredible work, ensuring more families receive the support they need during such a challenging time.
