THE WOODLANDS, Texas – Don Baker Sr., the owner of The Candy House in The Woodlands died Saturday, according to his family. He was 89.
Baker, who was a veteran and cancer survivor, made headlines in November after receiving an outpouring of support from the community in an effort to save his store, which he had run for more than 30 years.
A customer made an appeal on social media to help save the beloved business. The post went viral, being shared thousands of times. Another customer made a GoFunMe page on Nov. 12, which raised $37,105.
Baker was also a husband, father, grandfather and a respected businessman in his community. He served in the Navy from 1951-1954 during the Korean War, according to his family.
Baker leaves behind his wife of 66 years, Barbara Baker, his children, Donald Baker Jr. and Heather Whitman, Barbara and John Maxx Lewis, Donelle Baker, Michelle and Buzzy Campbell, grandchildren Blaine and Josh Campbell, Gunner Lewis and Kelly Andrus.
“His legacy will live forever in our hearts,” Andrus posted on Facebook.
Funeral plans have not been released.
The family asked for privacy as they mourn.
On behalf of myself and the entire Baker family: It is with great sadness to say that Donald Baker Sr., 89, passed away...
Posted by Kelly Andrus on Monday, January 4, 2021
You can watch a replay of our November story about Baker’s shop below.