John Baer Obituary, Cause of Death – Veteran Pennsylvania Political Journalist Dies at 79
John M. Baer, one of Pennsylvania’s most respected political journalists and columnists, passed away on September 24, 2026, at his home in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania. He was 79.
Surrounded by his family while receiving hospice care, Baer died following a long illness, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of more than five decades in journalism, public service, and political commentary.
A Distinguished Career in Journalism
Baer began his journalism career in 1972 as a reporter for the Harrisburg Evening News after spending three years teaching high school English. He quickly gravitated toward political reporting, a field that would define his career.
Following a Congressional Fellowship in Washington, D.C., he joined WITF as a public television producer, where he created several award-winning programs, including a celebrated documentary on the Three Mile Island nuclear accident. He also contributed as an editor for Philadelphia Magazine.
Later, Baer briefly entered public service as press secretary to Lt. Gov. Bill Scranton before returning to journalism, becoming a state government reporter for the Philadelphia Daily News. His insightful reporting from the Capitol Newsroom earned him national recognition, and he eventually spent two decades as one of Pennsylvania’s most influential political columnists.
His work continued through PennLive, where he remained an active columnist until shortly before his passing.
A Voice That Shaped Pennsylvania Politics
Known for his sharp wit, thoughtful analysis, and engaging writing style, Baer believed journalism should encourage readers to think rather than tell them what to think.
In 2012, he published On the Front Lines of Pennsylvania Politics: Twenty-five Years of Keystone Reporting, a collection of some of his most memorable political writing.
Among his many honors were being named one of the nation’s top political journalists outside Washington by the National Journal, receiving the Ben Franklin Award of Excellence, and induction into the Pennsylvania News Media Hall of Fame.
Family and Personal Life
John was born and raised in Harrisburg and graduated from Bishop McDevitt High School in 1965 before earning his degree from Mount St. Mary’s University. He later completed a master’s degree at Temple University and pursued advanced study through prestigious fellowship programs.
He was a devoted husband to Rosemary Ruggeri Baer for 57 years. Together they built a loving family and were well known for hosting annual Christmas gatherings that brought together friends, colleagues, and loved ones.
He is survived by his wife, Rosemary; his sons, Johnny Baer of Atlanta and James Baer of Camp Hill; daughter-in-law Melissa Baer; and his cherished grandchildren, Aiden, Owen, and Emma.
Funeral Mass
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Theresa Catholic Church, 1300 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania.
Remembering John Baer
John Baer’s legacy extends far beyond the headlines he wrote. Through decades of honest reporting, insightful political commentary, and unwavering dedication to journalism, he helped generations of Pennsylvanians better understand their government and their state.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, readers, and the countless people whose lives were enriched by his work.
May John M. Baer rest in peace.