OBITUARY
John Lawrence Baker
29 October, 1939 – 13 February, 2021
John Baker, 81, passed away on February 13, 2021. He was a passionate teacher, school administrator, coach, and investment advisor. He was also an avid sports enthusiast, foodie, collector, bookworm, numismatist, bird-lover, and historian with a passion for American history. He had a deep understanding of the United States Constitution and used this knowledge to fuel his sense of compassion for other people.
John read many books simultaneously with a vengeance including every president's biography and the classics. A stack of books was always next to “his chair.” He devoted his life to helping his children and grandchildren with sports and spent thousands of hours rebounding basketballs, going to games, and watching sports. He also followed politics and current events through the lens of a historian. John’s perfect day would be going to the gym, reading numerous newspapers, taking a grandchild to a sporting goods store then reading them a book, going to an auction to find coins or comic books, stopping at Popcorn Charlie to eat a Chicago style hotdog, followed by a bike ride. If you crossed his path, he was sure to offer you a piece of candy, a treat for your dog, and a corny joke (he was a punny guy). The day would end with a game of chess or checkers and popcorn. He leaves behind Judy, his wife of 51 years, and children Mary Beth Alexander (David), K.J. (Traeci) Baker, Sara Baker (Tony Brus), and Laura Resch (Michael). John's grandchildren include Evan, Emma, Brett, Greta, Liv, William, Rowan, Oaken, and great-grandchild Louis. He was his children’s rock and sounding board and often offered one of his many motivational quotes.
“It’s not the size of the dog in the fight; it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” -Mark Twain
A celebration of life is tentatively set for July 1, 2021 from 4-8pm in Davenport, Iowa.
DONATIONS
- The Nature Conservatory
Services
No public services are scheduled at this time. Receive a notification when services are updated.
Memories
John Lawrence Baker
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYDeb Sabin Killoren
24 February 2021
Mr. and Mrs. Baker lived across the street from me when they were in Manchester. I got to babysit Mary Beth while he was teaching driver's ed and Mrs. Baker taught summer school. Mr. Baker supported me when a high school teacher was a bully to a classmate, then to me, for standing up to him. He always made time to listen. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Steve Burke
23 February 2021
Coach, We had many conversations on the sidelines, couple in your office. You were a fair man that listened. Won’t forget any of it. Thanks for the memories. Steve Burke, WD, ‘78.
Doug Hawker
23 February 2021
I was a high school student at West Delaware back in the mid 1970’s. Mr. Baker was the vice principal at the time. He was a great guy and a good friend to me. I graduated mid way through my senior year and immediately went to college at UNI.
Mr. Baker called me into his office my last day of high school to wish me well and to give me some great advice to help me navigate college as a 17 year old. I still remember our conversation from that day.
I am sorry to hear that he has passed away. My condolences to his family.
Bill Funke
23 February 2021
Thank You Coach John Baker for being a great coach who taught us the game of football but also how to think the game and read plays and anticipate. Then you opened your house to the Senior class to show your appreciation. Your office was always open to everyone that needed to talk and you were our friend. You taught us sportsmanship as you had two players given awards after being nominated by the officials.
The day I remember most was when you and Coach Rick Louk had to inform me of a car/ train accident that luckily my parents survived. Your support was treasured that day and throughout my high school years.
Hopefully I made you smile on a fumble recovery for a 70 yard touchdown.
May God bless you Coach Baker.
Timothy Rudd
22 February 2021
From Spring of 1973 until my Senior year Spring of1976 I had the privilege of being Coached byCoach Baker In Varsity Track andVarsity Football . Coach John
was one. of the Major reasons after the Marine Corp that I myself have Coached middle School Football for 25 years and this test will be my 27th year as a
Track Coach. Thank You Baker they don’t make them like you anymore. God Bless. Tim Rudd
Jim Alderson
22 February 2021
Coach Baker was a super motivator, organized, and inspirational coach. Interesting history teacher and overall great man. He will be missed.
Jim Alderson
Steve Sieck
21 February 2021
I wrote a song about Coach Baker and the Fayette High School Cardinal football team. He was a great inspiration to me and others. He also taught me in Drivers Education that year. Thanks Coach Baker. Please listen to the 2nd verse of my song.https://youtu.be/KlFoib3YE7U
Tom Petsche
21 February 2021
John was my high school History/Government teacher and Football coach. But he was far more than that. He was a great mentor and motivator. He had a great sense of humor and made learning fun and enjoyable. John touched many lives the two years he was in Fayette and more importantly made a lifetime impact on our lives. I have thought of him often over the years as he was was one of the most influential people in my life. He was a great human being who will be miss by anyone who had the privilege of getting to know him. Prayers to Judy, who is a wonderful woman herself, and his family as he loved all of them so much.
Margaret Halverson
20 February 2021
Dearest Judy,
My deepest sympathies to you and all of your family. Hold all of those beautiful memories, they will help to heal your loss.
Love, Margaret
Audrey Hogenkamp
18 February 2021
John and Judy were a huge part of making my college experience more memorable. It was always such a treat to be able to go over the river to the Bakers house where I knew that I would be able to do laundry, be around family, and relax. John would always make a special effort to bring me candied almonds, and it always meant a lot. It was always great to see him in the stands of track meets and he will be both missed and remembered.
Wanda Faison
18 February 2021
From the Faison family to your family we send our most heartfelt sympathy, love and prayers your way in your time of sorrow..Although Mr Baker is no longer with you physically, his spirit and memories will live on in your hearts..He has now gone on to live with the Lord because the scripture says, " to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord".
Our families have been tied together since Christina and Sara were in preschool at the Lollipop Ranch so know that we are here for you still up the street and around the corner. God bless you and may His light shine upon you and give you peace.
Love, The Faison Family
Karen Frankenfeld
18 February 2021
Dear Judy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Bob and John had many long nights after football games. We so enjoyed your friendship. I so hope for you many wonderful memories and laughter which you two enjoyed. Take care of yourself and enjoy your family as they support you through this time in life. Much love and peace. Karen Frankenfeld
Dave Schaeffer
18 February 2021
The Baker home was a constant hangout during high school and I always felt at home there. John helped raise some pretty great kids and created a great home for kids to hangout. I am so sorry for your loss and will be thinking about all of the Baker family.
Olivia Hogenkamp
17 February 2021
The Baker house has always felt like home and I am so thankful to have such thoughtful people looking out for me while attending Augie. I will always remember John on the front porch naming birds, allowing me to play pinball in the basement, and helping to pull out a bike or even a unicycle. Sending all my love <3
Martha Beveridge
17 February 2021
Dear Judy,
I am holding you and your family in my prayers as you go through this difficult time. I hope the many words of praise for John give you some comfort.
Love,
Martha
Jerry Figg
17 February 2021
Judy, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family. From the posts, he must have been an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and friend. As you hold his memories in your heart, know he is close. Jerry & Mary Figg
Brian Stineman
17 February 2021
Judy, Mary Beth, K.J., Sara, Laura,
I was so shocked when I heard the news that all I could do was utter an expletive. From age 8 to 18, I was at your house daily, if not weekly. Mr. Baker (I never got used to calling him John) was always involving us in activities. From the jungle gym in the basement of the "old" house to the jungle gym in the basement of the house up the street, I always knew there was something going on at the Baker's and when I was there I was always included and treated like family. John taught me how to long-snap, how to set a pick, how to run the pick and roll and how to box out for a rebound. He took me to my first college football game (I still have the ticket stub). I remember countless games and drills in the driveway basketball court. He had us walking on stilts, riding unicycles (me not so much), trying out the latest sports toy or gimmick he found, (remember the ball on the string thing?) and overall just playing, being active, and having fun. Later there was a ping-pong table, foosball, pinball machine, even a pool table. Anything to keep you all playing and having fun together. What a great family man and excellent example of fatherhood! I am so utterly saddened to hear of your loss. Although inevitable, this is one of those things I never considered happening. While he is no longer with us, his memory and lessons will live on. That is a testament to a life well-lived. From my family to yours, please accept our condolences, and if there is ever anything we can do to repay those lessons, we are humbly at your service.
Sincerely,
Brian and Rebecca Stineman, and family
Scott Templeton
17 February 2021
I grew up with the Baker family since a young age. John was a great man and he will be dearly missed by all that knew him. My condolences to all of you.
Bill Hogenkamp
17 February 2021
I will miss watching late night monologues, listening to stories about Parson’s College, and hearing about my father in law as a coach. John and Judy, thanks for always welcoming my family!
Nancy Hogenkamp
17 February 2021
So many fun memories playing in the school gym, laughing at stories and jokes, mesmerized by magic tricks, devouring buttery popcorn....
Uncle John took the time to watch me run during my Augie days, and he took the time more than 30 year later to cheer on my girls. You were there for us and will be greatly missed.
Love to Aunt Judy, cousins and their kids ❤️ May John’s spirit live on through your integrity, generosity, humor and grit!
Bonnie Browning
16 February 2021
Judy and family,
Sorry for your loss. Sending prayers that those wonderful memories of John will comfort you
Liam Hogenkamp
16 February 2021
I always knew when we visited John and Judy that John would have pastries for me in the morning, even if we were leaving at 5am to drive back to CO. Oh, and he always had me watch the Pete Maravich basketball videos. Miss you John!
Charles Joslin
16 February 2021
We lost our center. John was the best center in the history of football. He could snap it on a dime. John was a great coach and friend. Sending love from Uncle Chuck
Margaret Joslin (Baker)
16 February 2021
John was a good brother, so many great memories! We always enjoyed when he and Judy visited Colorado. He will be greatly missed. Love and prayers to the family.
Traci Devlin
16 February 2021
Baker family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I loved visiting the Baker home in high school, it was such a welcoming atmosphere and I always enjoyed talking with John and Judy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all 💖
Love,
Traci Devlin
Margie Kelley
16 February 2021
Sorry to hear about John. He was a great neighbor. Gracie will miss him and his treats. Praying for your family🙏
Katherine Buck
15 February 2021
I was very sorry to hear of Mr. Baker's passing. I have very fond memories of growing up on West 35th street and spending time with your family. Hopefully you are all able to be together during this extraordinary time to take comfort in each other.