Wallace D. Baxter

Wallace Dale Baxter, eldest son of the late Wallace A. Baxter and Mary Elizabeth DeBeal was born on July 1, 1947 in Riverside California. He parted this earthly realm peacefully surrounded by family and friends here in Baltimore on February 27, 2016. Dale received his primary education in Riverside, California, and was a graduate of Riverside Polytechnic Senior High School. After high school Dale migrated east to Baltimore where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at the Baltimore College of Commerce, later renamed the University of Baltimore, and an M.B.A. Upon completion of his education Dale worked for McCormick Spice Company before beginning a successful career in state government. It was during this time that he met and married Sandra “Sandi” Campbell. Dale achieved many firsts in his career as a legislative lobbyist and an administrator for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Energy Administration where he served as Deputy Director until his retirement in 2003. Dale also served as a Board member and consultant for numerous community organizations and businesses throughout Maryland. Over the years he mentored many young professionals towards excellence as well. In the mid-1990s, Dale met Keith Gambrill who became his life partner until Keith’s untimely passing in 2008. Dale was a man of great energy who loved life, visual arts, cultural arts, and music—especially opera. He had an exceptional voice and was a long-term member of the Olton Singers and, most recently, a member of the Community Concert Choir. Dale especially loved to travel the world and was a true global citizen. Most of all, he loved his family and friends, and enjoyed entertaining at his home. We will long remember the many good times and celebrations Dale created for his love ones, and strangers, too. He certainly lived his life to the fullest, Dale is preceded in death by his life partner Keith. He leaves behind three younger siblings, Melvin, Richard and June A. Baxter; aunts June Critchlow and Erma DeBeal; godson Yale Partlow; numerous nieces and cousins; a devoted adopted family of sisters and brothers; and a host of friends.

Tributes

Wallace D. Baxter

July 1, 1947 - February 27, 2016