Saturday, January 22, 2011

Obituary: Elmer Irvin Baker 1921-2011

Elmer Irvin Baker, Oakley, CA passed away Friday, January 7, 2011 at the age of 89 years in the VA Clinic in Martinez, CA. Upon his death, he was given military honors, including the playing of “Taps.”
Elmer was born on November 26, 1921 in Hatfield, MO to Willie and Lena Fletcher Baker. Upon the death of his mother on April 3, 1925, he went to live with his grandparents, James and Sarah Baker of Allendale.
Elmer joined the Army on June 10, 1942. During World War II, he received three Bronze Stars for three major campaigns in China, India/Burma, and Central Burma.
Elmer married Delores Scott of Sheridan. To this union were born Darrel ervin and Mariana Sue.
In 1960, Elmer and the children moved to Brentwood, CA. A few years later, they moved to Oakley, CA. Elmer was a carpentry foreman, building shopping malls and large business buildings in CA. He was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, past president of the Eagles Lodge, and local builders unions.
Elmer never knew a stranger and had friends far and wide. He loved to read his Bible, play solitaire on his computer, and socialize. He had a contagious laugh and was greatly loved by his family. Through the years, Elmer and Darrel made several trips to Missouri and Iowa to visit family, where there was always a card, domino, or horseshoe game in play. There was a special love for him by his nieces and nephews.
Elmer was preceded in death by his daughter, Mariana Brown of Corning, CA; brother Loren Baker and wife Edna of Redding, brother Otis Ray Baker of Grant City, sisters Mary Belle Cape of Spingfield and June Baker of Allendale, step-brother Francis Ward of Omaha, and step-sister Ardith Potter of Allendale.
Elmer is survived by son Darrel Baker and daughter-in-law Michele of Oakley, CA; granddaughter Stacy Morris and husband Todd of Oakley, CA; and Lynette Gallegos and husband Bob of Corning, CA; grandson Joe Brown and wife Trina of Corning, CA; and seven great-grandchildren. Also surviving is aunt Lavena Wimer of Mount Ayr, sister Edith Fischer of Raytown, MO, sister in law Freda Baker of Grant City, and brother in law Roy Cape of Springfield.
Elmer was buried at the Veteran’s Sacramento National Cemetery with a private family ceremony. The family wants to recognize the Veterans Administration for taking such great care of our loved one.

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