Patrick and Patricia Baker Recognized for Commitment to Community

This month the United Way of Southington will honor a couple known by come area residents as "a town treasure." Patrick and Patricia Baker, founders of Patrick Baker & Sons, will receive the community impact award for decades of service in town.

When the Bakers moved from Ireland more than a half century ago, they had to start their lives from scratch. After working in New York selling candles to churches for a short time, the couple moved to Southington in 1961 where Patricia's uncle lived.

In 1965, Patrick Baker opened his first shop in Hartford selling religious goods, and after the I-84 highway was built, he moved his shop to its current home on West Street. He opened Fairfield, CT, and Manhattan stores as well.

What began as a candle store led to what has become one of the biggest religious supplies distributors in the northeast, servicing thousands of religious organizations from Connecticut to Puerto Rico, even supplying vestments to the Pope.

Retired for several years now, the 85-year old Baker and his wife say they are blessed to have lived a very full, meaningful life colored by many friends, seven children, 20 grandchildren and a businesses legacy now carried on by their kids.

"We've lived in this same house for 50 years now, and we've had the happiest years of our lives in this town," Patrick Baker said. "We're proud of what the store has become and what we've been able to do."

Throughout the years the Bakers have been known for their commitment to their church and the community as a whole.

To name a few, they were involved with a former organization called FISH, providing people with food, transportation to the hospital, and help finding shelter. The Bakers have always been very involved with their church, St. Thomas, helping to build St. Thomas School. Patricia Baker was the first president of the St. Thomas Ladies Guild and a member of Church Women United.

"We've always felt it is important to give back, and we've tried to do that through our involvement with the church and other ways," Patricia Baker said. "We were really grateful and surprised when we found out we were getting this award. It's very nice of them."

The Rev. Arthur Dupont, formerly a priest at St. Thomas Church, said the couple deserves the award.

"They are people of faith who would do anything for anyone," Dupont said. "What I can tell you about them is that they really are the salt of the Earth."

To local leaders such as former town councilor Victoria Triano, the couple is known for their selfless commitment to church and community. To their own family members, they're admired for their humility and work ethic.

"It's so admirable that they came here with nothing and really took a chance," daughter Maureen Kelly said. "My father's whole life was really about family. He always worked hard, always gave back and he never wanted attention for it. We have so many good memories."

The Bakers will receive their award during the United Way fund-raiser dinner on March 17 at the Aqua Turf  Club, ironically celebrating St. Patrick's day with corned beef and cabbage menu items. Tickets can be purchased from the United Way by calling 860-628-4565.