Kory Baker Ambler 

Kory Baker Ambler 

He embodied love for all 

Kory “danced to the beat of his own drum and never let the world dim his shine,” his finance and mother of his children, Jodi said. One hundred percent comfortable in his own skin, Jodi referred to him as her “big, strong, handsome man,” who welcomed the ostracized, made everyone laugh to tears, and loved his family beyond measure. 

Kory valued adventure and nature, relished time with family and friends, and loved music, wine, and sneakers. His joy was infectious, especially at family traditions like “Ravioli Day,” a cherished celebration where laughter filled the air, kids ran wild, and love flowed freely. Kory was in his element during those moments—surrounded by food, family, and a spirit of togetherness.

Professionally, Kory was a sommelier and wine aficionado, having managed a world-famous champagne and wine shop in California before working as a sommelier in Massachusetts. Prior to that, he was a proud tunnel worker on Boston’s “Big Dig” and dabbled in a variety of jobs, but his true talent lay in people. He was a natural salesman, not because he was pushy, but because people felt connected to him.

Kory’s caring nature and connection to people went beyond his professional life. Whether it was rescuing a stranger from an angry mob on the street, inviting someone without a home to Thanksgiving dinner, or renting a hotel room to keep watch of a younger cousin to keep him from relapse, while waiting for an open bed in a treatment center, Kory’s instinct was always to choose compassion and do the right thing. 

Kory’s family was his everything. The oldest of five siblings—Nick, Whitney, Mia, and Anthony—all looked up to Kory. His parents, Teri, and Scott, separated when he was young.  Both remarried, giving Kory a loving extended family, that included Pam and Rick, who helped raise him. 

A family man, Kory was engaged to the love of his life, Jodi, and together they shared dreams of a future filled with family and love. They had a son, Corado, now 17, who was just one when Kory passed. Kory loved being silly with Corado and taking him on picnics and adventures. Jodi and Kory were awaiting the birth of their second child, Benny, who was born two weeks after Kory’s death and is now 16.  

Kory struggled with addiction during the final year of his life, which he kept hidden until just before his passing, out of shame and fear of hurting those he loved. Even during his active addiction, his true self shone through and he apologized to those he loved. The night before he passed, he admitted his addiction and apologized for how the disease had affected his behavior. He desperately tried to remain the man his family knew and loved. They never doubted his heart and his intentions. “I miss his big strong arms, his soft eyes, and the amazing dad I always knew he would be,” Jodi said. “I miss him for myself, but most of all, I miss him for our boys.”

Since Kory’s passing, Jodi has become an advocate for treatment, prevention, recovery, and harm reduction. Her advocacy to her legislators ultimately led her to run for office. She is now a New Hampshire State Representative, doing everything she can to spare others from going through what she, Kory, and their family endured. 

Kory’s former fiancé and mother of his children, Jodi Newell, provided the information for this narrative. 

January 1, 1980-December 24, 2008-Age 28 

Portrait Artist: Elizabeth Jones

Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois 

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