Leslie E. Baker

Leslie was born in Cainsville, MO to his dear parents, Manly V. and Laurel May Baker, and into a farm family of four children; sister, Erma; brother, Manly; Leslie and sister, Rosalie. Leslie was active in the Future Farmers of America organization and was a leader in his circles. After many years of learning and working the farm, Leslie graduated from Cainsville High School and decided to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, with weapons classification as Rifle Sharpshooter and he was stationed at Quantico, VA.

After serving in the Marine Corps, he enlisted in the United States Air Force as a procurement specialist, ordering and dispursing supplies at Offutt AFB, Nebraska. When discharged from the service, Leslie returned home to the farm in Cainsville and decided to enter college at the University of Missouri. His courses were in Animal Husbandry, Agriculture and Biology. After graduating, Leslie returned to the farm, married Merna M. Fernau and had four children, Diann, Christine, Michael and Rebecca.

Upon being injured on the farm, Leslie decided to move the family to Des Moines, Iowa, where he became an inspector of dairy farms for the Iowa Department of Inspections, eventually earning the position of Chief. He was active in Boy Scouts, Methodist Youth Fellowship, 4H programs and many other volunteer positions for the community.

As the children grew older, Leslie decided to transfer to St. Louis, MO to the community of Kirkwood and entered a new position as a field inspector for the American Institute of Baking. After many years of traveling the world on behalf of this organization, he was asked to write field manuals, texts and training manuals for the organization.

Leslie moved to the Kansas City, MO area to be closer to work and married Catherine Norris. Upon marriage, Leslie inherited and loved her 5 sons, Mack, Dwight, Dwayne, Donald and Edward. He was active in their lives and their families lives and loved them as his own.

After retirement, Leslie enjoyed gardening, reading, football games and the wonderful cooking of his loving wife, Cathy. He also looked forward to all the family events, including those of the children, grandchildren and eventually great-grandchildren. He was visited by many relatives over the years and had many stories to tell. He was a very wise and accomplished man, and one to look to for advice.

After the passing of is wife, Cathy, he moved to Washington, MO to be closer to his children and enjoyed his final days at the assisted living facility, Victorian Place. We want to thank all of the people that touched his life because you are all a part of his legacy.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions be sent the Veterans Community Project, 8900 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64131.

A memorial service will be planned for the near future.