Kenneth William "Ken" Baker 1938-2020
Supplementary list 1970-71, full 1971-72 to 1986-87
Aston Villa website 21st August 2020
Former Club Chaplain Ken Baker has passed away
Ken was club chaplain at Aston Villa for 17 years. After his retirement he was given the title of Chaplain Emeritus to honour the work he did for the club during his tenure. Ken was also a former football referee who refereed at all levels in English football in the 1970s and 80s.
He progressed to become a referees assessor before being appointed as chaplain to Northampton Town. Shortly after this, Ken spoke with Doug Ellis who asked him also to become the Aston Villa chaplain. Ken accepted and he served faithfully in this role for 17 years, until ill health reduced his capacity to contribute. Ken was a friendly and approachable person who was always willing to be available to all at Bodymoor Heath and Villa Park.
He championed the role of football chaplaincy and was a great supporter of Sports Chaplaincy U.K., the umbrella body and charity that provides and supports chaplains in every professional and amateur sport in the U.K. & Ireland.
More precise dates of birth and death would be appreciated
Four possible births - Maidstone, Cambridge, Hartismere (Suffolk) and Sutton Coldfield
The last would seem probable but it is for first quarter of 1939, not impossible if he was born in late 1938