Baker served at the Upper Macungie Township-based company's chief executive from 1986 to 1992.
Dexter F. Baker, a former chairman and CEO of Lehigh Valley-based Air Products, died last Thursday, the company announced today in a news release.
Baker, 85, served as the top executive of the company from 1986 to 1992.
Air Products, a manufacturer of specialty gases, is based in Upper Macungie Township and is one of the region’s biggest employers.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dexter’s wife, Dottie, and his family,” Air Products CEO John McGlade said in a statement today. “Dexter was a constant advocate for the health and success of this company. He was a pioneer for Air Products in many ways. He was very good at setting tough goals, one of which was globalizing Air Products and he led the way in achieving this.”
Baker, a Lehigh University graduate, joined the company in 1952 as a sales engineer and served in several advancing roles before taking over as chairman and CEO, according to the news release.
In addition to his work at Air Products, Baker served in community and philanthropic roles. He was a member of the board of trustees of the Harry C. and Mary M. Trexler Foundation and president of the Dexter F. and Dorothy H. Baker Foundation.
The Minsi Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Allentown Arts Commission and the Boys & Girls Club are among organizations that have recognized him for his contributions.