Wilford Lloyd Baumes, the celebrated creator of the iconic television series The Love Boat and the producer of the beloved adventure show Wonder Woman, has passed away at the age of 86. According to an obituary released by Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home in Ohio, he died peacefully on June 28. Baumes spent his formative years in Amberley Village, Ohio, but later established his adult life in Santa Barbara, California, where he thrived in multiple creative avenues.
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Born in Ohio, Baumes was not only known for his contributions to television but also as an accomplished interior designer. His design work was highly regarded and featured in prominent publications such as Santa Barbara Magazine and Architectural Digest. The obituary highlights that his creative talent extended far beyond the screen, indicating a rich dual career in television and design.
Before making a name for himself with standout television credits, Baumes began his professional journey as a writer on various television shows, including The Wide World of Mystery and Help, Inc. His career took a significant turn when he adapted Jeraldine Saunders’s memoir, The Love Boats, into the hit television series The Love Boat, which aired from 1977 to 1987. The show captured the hearts of viewers with its anthology format, featuring a rotating cast of guest stars who explored love and relationships while aboard a cruise ship. The beloved series starred actors including Gavin MacLeod, Lauren Tewes, Jill Whelan, and Patricia Klous, resonating with audiences for an impressive ten seasons.
Another notable achievement in Baumes’s career was his work on Wonder Woman, which aired from 1975 to 1979. Starring Lynda Carter in the titular role, this series played a significant role in bringing the DC Comics superhero into the mainstream spotlight. The show was set against the backdrop of World War II in its first season and continued to capture the essence of the 1970s in its later seasons. Baumes’s production skills were pivotal in shaping the cultural impact of both these series.
In addition to The Love Boat and Wonder Woman, Baumes collaborated on several projects with executive producer Douglas S. Cramer. Noteworthy productions include Bridget Loves Bernie, Nightmare in Badham County, and Who Is the Black Dahlia? His contributions to these projects further underscored his versatility and talent in the television industry.
Baumes served in the U.S. Navy before embarking on his creative career. He achieved degrees from Denison University and the University of California, Berkeley, equipping himself with a solid educational foundation that supported his eventual success. His diverse skillset not only encompassed television writing and producing but also interior design, showcasing his multifaceted creativity.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Baumes was known for his generous spirit and the joy he brought to the lives of those around him. His obituary fondly recalls how his cocktail parties created cherished memories for friends and family, highlighting his thoughtfulness and the deep bonds he formed with loved ones.
As a fitting tribute to Baumes’s legacy, the family has requested that in lieu of flowers, mourners consider making donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in his honour. His impact on both television and the lives of those he cherished will be remembered by many in the years to come.
Wilford Lloyd Baumes leaves behind a rich legacy, not only in the entertaining worlds he created but also in the hearts of those he touched throughout his life.