.Charles R. Baker, born June 25, 1932 in Van Wert, Ohio, went to be with the Lord on July 2, 2012. He had just turned 80.
He served in the U.S. Army, 82nd Division, during the Korean Conflict. After serving his country he met and married Shirley Born where they settled in Battle Creek and raised five children. He worked for the City of Battle Creek and owned his own fencing and tack equipment business. His passion was horses, and for many years he bred, trained, and competed in harness horse racing for 30 years. He was a Lifetime Member of Michigan Harness Horseman’s Association.
He lives on in the hearts of his family, wife, Shirley Baker, children, Elizabeth (James) Fortino, Russell (Laura) Baker, Connie (Brady) Keys, Debra Williams and Mike, Richard (Debbie) Baker, sisters, Diane (Ron) Thatcher and Darlene (Hugh) Jones, six grandchildren, Jessica Williams, Jenna Baker, Lindsey Baker, Travis Baker, Ryan Baker, and Danielle Baker, who brought him tremendous joy. Charles was also survived by his brother-in-law John (Marilyn) Donor and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Datha Baker, and a sister, Elaine Donor. Father you will be greatly missed.
Family will receive friends from 1pm to 3pm Saturday July 7, 2012 at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home where services will be held at 3pm Saturday with Pastor Kelly Hadlich officiating. A private family committal service will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to charity of one’s choice.