Russell H. Baker

On October 9, 2026, at 4:30 a.m., we lost a great man. He was the husband of Mary F. (Major) Baker, who preceded him in death after 75 years of marriage. They were the parents of five children, Kathy Smith of Springfield, IL, Linda (Ed) Maki of Frankfort, KY, Chuck (Diana) Baker of Friendswood, TX, and Bill (Marni) Baker and Bob (Julie) Baker, both of Springfield, IL. They were blessed with 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Russell was born on July 2, 1925, graduated from New Berlin High School, and entered the U.S. Marines in May of 1943. He celebrated his 18th birthday in boot camp. Russell was in the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Regiment, and 3rd Division in the Marine Corps. He was stationed in Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. Russell worked as Chief Accountant in the Dept. of Transportation for the State of Illinois.

He was one of eleven children born to Ed and Grace Baker. Russell was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers and sisters. He was 101 years, 3 months, and 7 days old at the time of his death. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Graveside Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, with military honors provided.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham.

Please visit www.butlerchatham.com to offer your condolences.