To the editor:
It was with much sadness that I learned of the passing of Dr. J. Wain Baker.
My association with Dr. Baker began many years ago while living on Main Street in Rockport.
Contrary to most young children, I actually did not mind going to the dentist. Dr. Baker's calm and friendly manner made me feel relaxed and confident that I would endure little or no pain. I recall sitting in the dentist chair and looking out the window at the open Atlantic Ocean. This added to the calming effect, I am sure.
As soon as I turned 14, I joined an organization known as Rockport Sea Explorer Ship 53. I was filled with anticipation as I contemplated the experiences and opportunities ahead.
I took advantage of every opportunity to learn as much about the sea as possible and advanced through the ranks to quartermaster. At the weekly scout meetings, Dr. Baker could always be counted on to answer any questions that I had regarding the scouts, the sea or life in general.
At one of these meetings, Wain asked if any of us were interested in learning celestial navigation. I signed up immediately. The thought of being able to use a sextant to find my position upon the sea, as my ancestors had, was so exciting. Each week, I rode my bicycle to his beautiful home on the Atlantic Ocean for several months.
There were three scouts, including myself, taking his navigation course. I was so grateful that an adult had taken such an interest that he was willing to spend that amount of time with us.
I was one of three sea scouts to enter Maine Maritime Academy upon graduation from Rockport High School in 1961. There was no problem when I reached the point of taking the Celestial Navigation Course at the school. My classmates could not believe that I already knew the proper use of a marine sextant and could work out lines of position, thereby finding my location anywhere on the surface of the oceans. Thank you, Dr. Baker!
During several years recently, I had the opportunity to sit with Dr. Baker on the porch of the Sandy Bay Yacht Club, while we reminisced of the Sea Explorer days during the Sunday morning coffees.
I am so thankful to have had that opportunity to chat.
Dr. Baker, I know that there are many persons like myself that benefited from your kindness and giving spirit.
My sympathies go out to the family at this time of grief. You will always live in my memory as a very special person. I will miss you. Many thanks.
George Grimes
Rockport
