Orietta Baker

Orietta Mae Baker, aged 94, died peacefully on March 29, 2018 at home in Machesney Park, IL with her son John at her side. Orietta was born August 3, 1923 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Hugh and Hilda (Freitag) Earle. After losing her mother at a very young age, she was raised by her uncle and aunt, Paul and Alta Freitag which in turn made her into the strong woman she was today. Orie graduated from Beloit High School. She married Theodore Peterson and after his death she married Burson Baker. Her working career spanned from factory work of manufacturing to working retail in the local grocery store. Member of Grace Lutheran Church in Loves Park. Orie loved dogs and her family was never complete without one. She found great enjoyment in vacations to Florida and Minnesota, flowers, watching Lawrence Welk and keeping up on her stock quotes daily. Orie was a take charge no nonsense kind of woman who was very smart. “She did it her way”.

Survived by her sons, John Peterson and Scott (Linda) Peterson; grandchildren, Julie, John, Jeremy and Joshua and seven great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her parents and both husbands. The Family wishes to thank Peak, Visiting Nurses, Mercy Health, Hospice and all of those who cared for her during her last few years.

Memorial Services will be at a later date. Per Orietta’s wishes cremation rites have been accorded. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens.