It was the love for their grandchildren that caused residents Charlie and Joan Baker to come to the Sunshine State. In April 2020, this happy couple embarked on a new chapter in their lives, relocating from Southeast Virginia to St. Petersburg, Florida, to be closer to their son and daughter-in-law and, most importantly, their three beloved grandchildren. The decision to make the move was motivated by family ties, but little did they know that their move to St. Pete would open the doors to a fulfilling life in a city they now proudly call home.

 

“Our son became a Tampa Bay Harbor Pilot,” explains Charlie. When he and their daughter-in-law relocated for his job, Charlie and Joan retired and relocated to Venetian Isles.

 

 

Charlie had a distinguished career in the aviation industry, serving in the Air Force for 14 years and later spending 27.5 years as an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As an air traffic controller, he had to have an in-depth understanding of aircraft operations, volumes, and weather conditions to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel. Fortunately, he was able to avoid mandatory retirement at the age of 56, after receiving a promotion to an executive position at FAA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. There he managed various teams that worked with Nextgen technologies for radar systems and cockpit-to-controller automation.

 

Joan retired early to join her husband in their new adventure in St. Pete. Prior to retiring, Joan worked as a HR Manager in a unique and historically significant position for the Commonwealth of Virginia at Fort Monroe. Managing the area that the U.S. Army occupied during the Civil War era was an enriching experience that she cherishes.

 

 

For Charlie and Joan, the decision to move to St. Pete proved to be a fantastic one.

 

“We had only looked at two houses,” explains Joan. “We didn’t know anything about St. Pete.” They had one thing they wanted – space for their boat in the backyard. St. Pete presented the perfect opportunity to enjoy waterfront living. “We contacted a REALTOR® and initially did everything by telephone and online,” says Joan. They found the home that they desired here in Venetian Isles.  

 

They have been residents for three years now and are very happy. St. Pete, with its vibrant nature and friendly community, captured their hearts from the start. They enjoy the balance between the amenities of a large city and the warmth of a close-knit community. On Saturday nights, they often venture downtown, feeling safe as they immerse themselves in the city's lively ambiance.

 

The Bakers have embraced the active Florida lifestyle with gusto. They play pickleball and Joan has taken up the popular game of Mahjong. Joining the St. Pete Shuffleboard Club has become one of their favorite pastimes, allowing them to engage with others and stay physically active. The couple also values their health and fitness; Charlie plays golf and Joan diligently works out five days a week.

 

Their dedication to community involvement is evident through their active participation in the Northeast Exchange Club. Charlie is a proud board member, and both of them volunteer their time with the organization. Additionally, Charlie serves on the Homeowners' Association (HOA) for Venetian Isles, contributing to the well-being of their neighborhood.

 

As outdoor enthusiasts, Charlie and Joan savor every moment they spend on their boat, exploring the waters and enjoying the Florida sunshine. Their spacious lanai provides a lovely retreat, offering the perfect spot to relax and bask in the outdoors. But it wasn't just the boat that made their home complete – they quickly discovered that living in Florida without a pool was not an option. So, they invested in a pool, making their property a true haven of relaxation and fun.

 

The couple's passion for sports has led them to attend professional games of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Rays, Rowdies, and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Their arrival in St. Pete even seemed to bring good luck to the local teams, as the Tampa Bay Lightning went on to win back-to-back Stanley Cups and the Bucs won the Superbowl.

 

Joan, in particular, appreciates the cultural richness of St. Pete. The couple has explored numerous museums and frequented local breweries and restaurants, savoring the diverse offerings the city has to offer. They find themselves immersed in the art scene and the array of entertainment options that the city provides.

 

 

Charlie and Joan Baker are a delightful couple who have wholeheartedly embraced the St. Pete lifestyle. Their love for the city's vibrant culture, outdoor activities, and close-knit community has brought them immense joy and fulfillment. Their decision to move to St. Pete to be with their family has turned into a well-rounded life chapter filled with meaningful connections and an appreciation for everything the Venetian Isles has to offer. Charlie concludes, “It’s a great opportunity to live here.” He and Joan wouldn’t have it any other way.