James "Del" Baker

Born on April 1, 1942, in Flint, Michigan, Del was the beloved son of Dossie Hinton and Mary Frances Baker. He graduated from Decatur High School in 1960 and soon dedicated himself to serving his country in the United States Air Force, where he remained until April 1964. Following his military service, Del continued his commitment to public service by joining the Marion County Sheriff’s Department in August 1965, serving with honor until his retirement in June 1978.

A man of ingenuity and mechanical brilliance, Del had an innate ability to understand how things worked. Whether he was repairing engines at his gas stations, restoring classic hot rods, or running his own conveyor company, his mind was always engaged, constantly solving problems and envisioning possibilities.

Del is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra Baker, his sister Jeannie (Baker) Metzler and her husband Mike Metzler, along with their sons Brian and Jason (Cathy) of Nappanee, Indiana. He also leaves behind his children: daughter Daun (Baker) Meador and her husband Michael Meador, granddaughter Michaela Wood and her husband Connor Wood, great-grandchildren Presley, Harper, and Blake, grandson Dylan Meador, and son Drew Baker. In addition, Del loved his stepsons and their families: Scott (Pam) Fouts, Gene (Janine) Fouts, and Mark (Deanna) Gladson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dossie Hinton and Mary Frances Baker, his half-sister Wilma Spencer, and his son James Dean Baker.

Del’s presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Even in his final days, he captivated his family with his incredible stories—his last, a vivid recollection of an Indy 500 race he attended years ago, and a conversation shared among racing friends. His service, dedication, and unwavering love for his family, including his many beloved dogs, will remain in their hearts forever.

Our Superman now has his wings.