He was born in 1953 in Freeport, IL, son of Dwight and Marilyn Baker. Jim was a graduate of University High School and Illinois State University. He married Becky Mitchell on June 11, 1977.
Surviving are his wife, Becky of Bloomington; their twin children, Barbara Baker of Lexington, KY and Mitchell (Gwenola) Baker of Greensboro, NC, and one granddaughter, Clara Baker. Also surviving are sister, Jenna Baker Wexler of Woodstock, MD and nephew, Noah Wexler of Owings Mills, MD.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jim was a custom home builder and contractor in Bloomington-Normal for over 40 years, much of that time owning and operating his own company, BMJ Construction. His children were proud to have worked alongside their dad throughout high school and college. He also taught adult education woodworking classes for over 20 years at Bloomington High School.
He was a member and past president of the Central Illinois Radio Club for over 40 years. Through the radio club, he participated in "Field Day" and helped with the McLean County Wheelers' June event. Jim was also an active cyclist.
Jim enjoyed his annual rainbow trout fishing trips to Montauk State Park, Missouri. He was also a "foodie" who loved cooking and grilling for others, especially by the campsite. He is fondly remembered for his smoked salmon.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at East Lawn Funeral Home and graveside service will be held at 12:30 pm at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Bloomington.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to ARRL (The National Association for Amateur Radio) home.arrl.org/action/donate
To share condolences with the family and view his online tribute, please visit EastLawnMemorial.com
