Kali Lynn Baker passed away on Friday, October 2, 2020 at age 44, due to complications from breast cancer that had more recently metastasized to her liver. At the end, she was surrounded by loved ones and passed peacefully and painlessly.
Kali was born on September 30, 1976, in Wakefield, NE to Terry and Patricia Baker. Kali excelled in athletics and academics and was awarded a Regents Scholarship to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing.
Kali began her career in Omaha in the marketing departments at Borsheims and Kiewit, before ultimately taking her talents to the Omaha Community Foundation (OF) where she served first as Director of Communications, and then as Vice President of Community Investment until her passing. It was at the Foundation that she was able to channel her devotion to community into a career. Throughout her 13 years at OCF, Kali spearheaded Omaha Gives, the community's 24-hour celebration of giving, and launched The Landscape, a comprehensive community-indicator project incorporating policy and data.
Kali's love of community and caring for others defined her life.
She had an immeasurable impact as a mentor, friend, and leader to countless individuals through both her professional and personal endeavors. In 2013, Kali was recognized as one of Ten Outstanding Young Omahans (TOYO) by the Omaha Jaycees. In 2014, she was recognized again for her commitment to the community by the Midlands Business Journal's annual 40 Under 40 awards.
Kali was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents, her Uncles Leon and Jerry Baker, and Aunt and Uncle Jan & Bob Masteller. She is survived by her loving partner Rahul Misra of Detroit, MI; her parents Terry and Patricia Baker of Wakefield, NE; her Brother, Sister-in-Law, and Beloved Niece Jared, Whitney, and Mara Baker of Omaha, NE; her Chihuahuas Odin and Wolfie: Uncle Burnie & Aunt Esther Baker of South Sioux City, NE; Aunt Alice Baker of Chadron, NE: Uncle Paul and Aunt Jan Jensen of Lincoln, NE; and many cousins.
Safety
Tables and seating will be socially distanced, and masks will be required for everyone's safety due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. While everyone is welcome, the family respectfully asks that individuals do not attend if they have recently been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have recently been exposed, are awaiting test results, or otherwise have a fever or symptoms of COVID-19.
Parking
Garage and street parking is available in the The Capitol District. For more information, please visit CapitolDistrictOmaha.com.
