Betty Jane Baker (age 87) passed away October 13, 2011 in Coeur d’Alene. She was born July 11, 1924 in Chicago, IL to Maude G. and Dr. William Asa Baker. She served in the US Navy during World War II. She traveled the country for a few years, with the goal of visiting each state. Betty would move and work to earn enough money for a train ticket to the next state. She eventually lived in about 35 states. At the age of 45 she learned to drive a car, but for years would make only right hand turns. She returned to school and earned her high school diploma in Reno, NV at age 51 – graduating the same year as her oldest daughter (1975). Betty then attended community college in Reno, obtaining the training to work as a mental health technician, a job she dearly loved. She enjoyed white water rafting and tubing in her 70’s. She is especially remembered for her sense of humor and her patriotism.
Betty is survived by her children, Gail Brimhall (Shannon) of Post Falls, ID, Linda Tuccillo of Coeur d’Alene, ID, Steve Astlund (Patty) of Post Falls, Regan Butler of Tipp City, OH; grandchildren, Jordan and Holly Brimhall, Cody and Jessi Astlund, Hunter Tuccillo, Will, Reilly, Sam and John Butler; sister-in-law, Charlene Lewandowski; nephew, Paul Baker and his sons Nicholas and Ryan; niece, Janet Baker, all of the Chicago area.
Special thanks to the folks at Pinewood Care Center for their wonderful, loving care for Betty.
A private family gathering will be held in the future.
Arrangement entrusted to Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home in Spokane, WA.
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