Hundreds of surf industry, family and friend gathered Sunday afternoon for Dick Bakers Memorial. Dick passed away in April of Cancer and it truly will not sink in for a while.
Pulling in the lot and walking towards the picnic area we had lumps in our throats, but as we left the beautiful ceremony and paddle out we left with smiles. We left feeling thankful we new Dick and that we are all a part of this industry we work in.

Industry leaders their families most with boards under their arms listened to some very touching memories of Dicks mark in their lives. And man did he touch many. Legendary PT moderated as we heard amazing stories from a few key people in Dick’s life. He was always a great mentor for us all as he worked with companies from Esprit, Tommy Hilfiger, Izod then blending into the surf world with OP and steering SIMA for almost a decade. Not to mention his involvement with many environmental / humanitarian organizations and community service. Dick was a big part of Surf Aid getting integrated into the surf industry. This is only scratching the surface of his achievements.

Until Sunday’s memorial I had no clue how many people Dick had helped, mentored, and inspired. He helped me on many occasions even if it was just an ear at his local Starbucks. He would digest a few of my random ideas, dice them up and set me straight for my next move. I have to admit one of my ideas which he told me absolutely not to do at the time. I went for it anyway. This was about 3 years ago. Long story short I should’ve listened to him.

The paddle out was an amazing scene. I will mention the water had dropped a couple points and a few of us could’ve used more neoprene but it was amazing. Dick’s wife Una and his two boys Ryan and Jack jumped in off a boat and gathered in the center of the circle as everyone splashed, threw flowers and yelled.

PT was one of the last in from the circle of hundreds. It was amazing to see him catch one in. He was on an original board from the movie Big Wednesday that Jack Barlowe surfed..

If you signed in Bakers books you took a peak at a few pretty incredible photos of Bakers life. If you didn’t get a chance to see them make sure you make it to Cabo for the next SIMA Summit as you might get a chance to check them out..

Thank you Dick.

Thank You Una, Ryan, and Jack for sharing your husband and father with us.
He was a remarkable person that was a true blessing from God.

- Jim Shubin

Gathered to listen to stories and achievements of a great life.

The paddle out.

PT riding one in on Jack Barlowe’s original board from Big Wednesday in “78”. Amazing moment.

The boys remembering Baker. Dan from ASR, the boys from AMBSN, Josh from TWBiz, and Sean Smith from SIMA.

Dick Baker’s greatest achievement. Una, Ryan, and Jack.