Steve Baker
Steve Baker, a longtime and respected reporter for WHIO-TV, has died unexpectedly, leaving colleagues, friends, and the wider Ohio community mourning the loss of a familiar and trusted voice in local journalism. Baker spent decades covering news across the Miami Valley, including Miami, Darke, Shelby, Mercer, and Auglaize counties, earning the affection of viewers and the respect of peers. Known for his dedication, thorough reporting, and warm personality, he became a recognizable presence in homes across the region. Colleagues often referred to his reporting area as “Bakerland,” reflecting both his familiarity with the communities he served and the personal connections he fostered along the way.
Former coworkers remember Baker as a consummate professional who combined a deep knowledge of local issues with a genuine care for the people he reported on. One colleague recalled a daylong reporter meeting in September 2012 at Aileron in Tipp City, noting Baker’s presence and good humor left lasting impressions on all who were there. His ability to connect with others, both on and off camera, made him a valued member of the WHIO family. Outside of work, Baker was known for his kindness, quick wit, and readiness to lend support to friends and colleagues. He leaves behind a legacy of journalistic integrity, mentorship, and heartfelt community engagement.
The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from viewers, peers, and community members who admired his commitment to sharing accurate, meaningful stories. Tributes highlight not only his professional achievements but also the warmth and humanity he brought to every interaction. Steve Baker will be remembered as a devoted journalist, a caring colleague, and a friend to many. His contributions to Ohio journalism and the communities he covered leave an enduring legacy, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Condolences
I’ve been thinking a lot about our friend Steve Baker since we learned of his death this morning. I kept thinking of this picture, went looking for it and just found it. Makes me smile thinking of Steve. It’s from September 2012 at a daylong WHIO-TV reporter meeting we did at Aileron in Tipp City (which is right in the heart of “Bakerland” as we call it — anywhere in his Northern Bureau beat of Miami, Darke, Shelby, Mercer, and Auglaize counties.) It’s former Channel 7 reporters Layron Livingston WPLG, Local 10 and Mark Bruce, plus James Brown WHIO, Steve, and me. Godspeed, Steve.
I met Steve and his brother Larry at Sunnyside at St.Marys on the lake. They would come in for breakfast on Sunday mornings after church. I always got a kick out of them arguing who was better, coast guard or the Navy. Larry was coast guard and Steve was Navy. Then on Wednesdays he’d come in when he was up here and had the chicken. Such a sweet guy. Prayers to Marty and the family!
Steve was an awesome reporter and camera man! I mean to hold the video camera while doing a report, he was the best! His reports were informative, he reported on some amazing non profits in our area! R.I.P. Steve!
my condolences on the loss of your colleague. Local TV and radio personalities become friends that we welcome into our homes and it’s very sad when they leave us. May his memory be a blessing..
