Dennis J. Baker

CATTARAUGUS — Dennis James Baker, 73, of Cattaraugus, passed away unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.

He was born Feb. 10, 1952, in Gowanda, son of the late Robert and Doris (Fuss) Baker. On July 22, 1972, Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Elyse (Briggs) Baker, who survives.

Mr. Baker worked for the United States Postal Service for 33 years.

He was a member of the Village of Cattaraugus zoning board, an avid Buffalo sports fan, enjoyed bowling at Ken Lanes in Gowanda and recently joined Brick Lane Speedway with his “bro-in-law.”

Denny and Elyse enjoyed their traveling adventures with Beth and Kimber Erhart. Dennis also coached basketball for many years.

Besides his devoted wife of 53 years, Dennis is survived by a sister, Pamela Baker of Cattaraugus; two daughters, Nichole (Scott) Zeafla of Cattaraugus and Jillian (Bill) Sills of Little Valley; two sons, Brandon Baker of Fuquay Varina, N.C., and Evan (Shelby) Baker of Lancaster; 10 grandchildren, Kyle (Haley), Sydney, Preston, Justin, Jaycee, Aryana, Lily, Amelia, Owen and Cameron; three step-grandchildren, Andrea, Andrew and Adam (Haley); two special great-grandchildren, Ellee and Caiden; and several nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held by the family.

The Baker family would like to express a special thank you to Cattaraugus first responders, Gowanda EMS, Ellicottville Fire Chief, EMS chief and the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office for assisting the family.

Memorials may be made out to Cattaraugus Fire and EMS.

Arrangements are entrusted to DiStasio Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.distasiofuneralhome.com.