CAPE ELIZABETH — George William Baker, 102, died peacefully Jan. 23 at his home in Cape Elizabeth.

He was born in Portland on Dec. 26, 1912, a son of Charles Ephram Baker and Alice Emerson Baker. He attended South Portland schools and graduated from South Portland High School in the class of 1933.

Unable to enlist in the military during World War II because of a medical disqualification, Baker proudly contributed to the war effort through his work at New England Ship Building Corp. in South Portland. As a welder, he worked on every Liberty Ship produced there during the war.

Later, Baker was employed as a master machinist at Portland Copper & Tank Works in South Portland, and at Bancroft-Martin in Scarborough.

Baker was an avid golfer, and played regularly until age 95. He also was a gifted builder, with extensive experience in many trades. He could usually be found in his cherished workshop, planning his next project, or repairing motors and household appliances. He also followed his favorite sports teams, especially the Boston Red Sox.

In 2014, the town of Cape Elizabeth presented Baker with the Boston Post Cane in recognition of his being the town’s oldest resident.

Baker was predeceased by his father, Charles, a Spanish-American War veteran; his mother, Alice Emerson; and his siblings, Margaret Lancaster and Thomas Baker.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Alberta O’Connor Baker; his daughter, Judy Merrill and husband, Clint; his son, George William Baker II; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A graveside service was to be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Trauma Intervention Program of Portland.

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