Related Articles
Friends of a much-loved Derby postman who has died suddenly are raising money to pay for the cost of his funeral. Mark Baker passed away on January 14 aged 57 and already almost £3,000 has been raised.
Sean Richards, of Oakwood, said he has been approached by a lot of people regarding Mark and added: “He clearly was very popular in Oakwood and some parts of Chaddesden.
“Most people will remember him when he worked at Carol’s Fruit and Vegs in Oakwood with his parents and he also ran the greengrocers in Kwik Save many years ago in the precinct. He then became a postman in Oakwood, often being stopped for a good natter with many people.
Read more: Man who harassed neighbours is rehomed in same flat after leaving prison
“He was loving every bit of it and always had a few stories to tell with a mischievous smile and he will be sorely missed especially by his family, close friends and the residents of Oakwood. It is understood Mark leaves his father and a brother and he doted on his brother’s children.
“Every penny raised will go towards his funeral costs. Let’s send him off in the way he truly deserves.”
Mark, whose nickname was Mush, was keen on music and attended many gigs up and down the country and some people he delivered post to have remarked on social media about how they would share opinions on the Derby music scene. When he was younger, Mark was a punk rocker and his favourite band was The Fall but he also liked going to local gigs. He also attended Lees Brook Community School when he was a teenager where he was also into punk, say his friends.
On the GoFundMe page, Sean has collected together some tributes to Mark. One of them says: “Mark was a big gentle giant who was much loved by everyone he came into contact with. He always had a big smile and kind words (and a bag of sweets) please help his family to give him the best send off possible.”
Another one said: “When I first met Mark, he instantly treated me like he had known me for years, always making sure I was alright and letting me know of any work-related news. He was the first person I’ve told outside of family that my partner and I were expecting our 2nd child. The way he beamed with pride for me will always stick in my memories forever. Can’t believe you’re gone. The best ones always get taken early. Fly high mate and be free.”
A fellow postal worker commented: “We have tragically lost Mark, which has come as a shock to us all, he was a great friend to many and the news is devastating to his family and friend as it is to us all here at Royal Mail – his work family.
“Mark was well known in Chaddesden / Oakwood, he had the type of personality that you couldn’t help but like, he was a gentle giant with a heart of gold that would do anything for anyone
“We would like to support his family at this difficult time in any way we can if you are able to donate in any way it would be much appreciated.”
Friends are hoping to raise at least £5,000 which can be donated here. Arrangements for Mark’s funeral have still to be announced.
For the latest Derbyshire stories sent straight to you via email daily, sign up to one of our newsletters here.
READ NEXT:
