Rowena “Rena” Kay Baker, 77, passed away on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, Iowa with family at her side. A funeral service will be held at Cornerstone Church, 56829 US 30, Ames, on Tuesday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. Due to COVID, Rena's family encourages attendees wear masks. Burial will follow at Ames Municipal Cemetery.
Rena was born to Mildred and Clarence “Curly” McCartney on April 21, 1944 in Ottumwa, Iowa. She spent her childhood in Ottumwa, Blairsburg, and Williams. She graduated from Williams High School in 1962 and has many fond memories of classmates there. Rena's first marriage gave her Todd, her beloved son and “Pony Boy.” She married David Baker on April 12, 1980, and they spent 41 happy years together. Rena worked at the Iowa Department of Transportation for years, making many friends there before her retirement in 1999. She took a part-time job at Christopher and Banks at North Grand Mall following her retirement, and she loved the coworkers and friends she had at the store.
Rena loved her family, friends, Jesus, flowers and plants, jewelry, holiday decorations, and the color purple. Anyone who knew her will remember her for her liveliness and warmth, and her signature style that included perfectly done nails and hair and color-coordinated outfits.
Rena is preceded in death by her parents, Mildred Izer and Clarence McCartney.
Rena is survived by her husband, David Baker; son, Todd (Ashley) Rullestad; their children Merrin and Henry; and her sister Carolyn Boon (Ken Kenealy). Rena was a proud Nana, telling “anyone with ears” about the latest things her “adorables” were doing. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Memorial contributions for Rena can be addressed to her family for later distribution.
