Stephen Laurence Baker – aka “Big Dog”

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen Laurence Baker. He passed away peacefully May 9, 2024, with his family holding his hands and listening to his favourite songs.

Laurence was a wonderful dad and poppa, family meant everything to him. With his passing, we have lost our rock, but his love for music, soccer, and movies will live on in his grandchildren.

Laurence was born in North Vancouver on January 21, 1954, to his parents Steve and Daisy Baker. He was the youngest of three children.

Laurence is predeceased by his parents Steve and Daisy, his brother in-law’s Wayne, and Al. Laurence is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Jo-Anne, his three daughters; Tamara (Adam), Rachel (Justin), and Sarah (Lucas), his 5 grandchildren; Aurora, Edward, Cameron, Paisley, & Sadie, his sisters Janet and Marion; his nephews and niece; Colin, Bryan, Daryl (Katie), and Lindsay (David; predeceased), and two great nieces Allie and Kennedy.

Laurence dedicated his life to the union movement and was a diehard Liverpool FC fan. Laurence was a 50-year member of Ironworkers Local 97 where he was given the nickname Big Dog. He worked for over 25 years as a dispatcher and business agent. He also loved organizing within the local and with the international union. Laurence had many friends and brothers and sisters within the union that he also considered family. He served on many boards and committees including the BC Building Trades and Construction Rehab. He would do anything to help a fellow union brother or sister.

Please join us in celebrating Laurence’s life at 12pm on May 25th at Ironworkers Local 97 Union Hall at 20135 115A Ave, Maple Ridge, BC. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Terry Fox Foundation or a local treatment centre. These charities held a special place in his heart.

“You’ll Never Walk Alone”