James Irvan Baker

James was born in Plainfield on November 25, 1937 to the late Ralph and Veronica (Bordenkircher) Baker. He graduated from Sacred Heart School in 1955. James worked for 38 years at Smurfit Stone, where he retired as the powerhouse superintendent. Prior to working at Smurfit Stone, he worked with his father-in-law, Simon Stewart, and helped build the Stewart Addition in Coshocton. James was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Elks Lodge #376, the Eagles Lodge #761, and the Knights of Columbus, chapter 994 where he was a Past Grand Knight. James was a past president and EMS member of the first steering committee for Volunteers of Coshocton County EMS. He served as the councilman for the city of Coshocton, 2nd Ward, since January 1, 2010. He chaired councils for the housing and property maintenance committee and also served on the Safety Services, Parks and Recreation, and the Coshocton is Blooming panels. He thoroughly loved being the Coshocton City Councilman. James was a 3-year cancer survivor, and avid OSU fan. And he was a fan of the Coshocton Redskins; he never missed a home game. James never met a stranger and he was very proud of his city.

James is survived by his wife, Barbara (Stewart) Baker, who he married on June 23, 1956. He is also survived by his children: James S. (Tina) Baker, Christa (Jim) Walsh, and Michael (Sheila) Baker; 10 grandchildren: Renee (Jarrod) Dennis, James S. (Alyssa Henry) Baker, Kelly Baker, Bobby McCormick, Jason (Kristy) McCormick, Ryan (Stacy) McCormick, Andy Baker, Cory (Brittany Smith) Baker, Brayden Baker, and Davin Baker; 17 great-grandchildren: Serena, Paige, Harley, Brent, Alyviah, Dreyden, Rylnn, Christopher, Veronica, Cayden, Brice, Mackenzie, Austin, Alexis, Joey, Dylan, and Finton; and his two loving dogs, Frankie and Brutus.

Along with his parents, James Is preceded in death by his brother, Richard Baker, and three dogs, Lily, Oliver, and Angel.

Calling hours will be held at Given-Dawson Funeral Home on Monday, December 5, 2016 from 5-8 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. with Father Victor Wesolowski officiating. Per the family’s wishes, James will be cremated after his services.

For those who wish, contributions can be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 805 Main St. Coshocton, OH 43812.

An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawsonfuneralhome.com.