William R. Baker, of Valparaiso, passed away Sunday, Oct. 29, 2006 at Porter Valparaiso Hospital Campus. He was 75.

He was born Jan. 9, 1931 in Valparaiso, the son of Russell and Pearl Hazel (Wheeler) Baker, both of whom preceded him in death.

On Sept. 3, 1949 in Valparaiso, he married Barbara Cleveland, who survives.

He is also survived by four children, Sandy (Vernon) Highlan of Valparaiso, William (Peggy) Baker Jr. of Chesterton, Michael (Mary) Baker of Indianapolis, Linda (Bill) Hardy of Texas; nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren and siblings, Jeanette (Tom) Pemberton of Valparaiso and Rusty (Mary) Baker of Valparaiso.

He was also preceded in death by a sister, Jeanie Reed and a brother, Sam Baker.

William worked for U.S. Steel Sheet and Tin Division for 37 years before retiring. He was a Master Carver of the Duneland Woodcarvers and loved to hunt and fish. He was a dedicated husband and father who will be missed.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Bartholomew Funeral Home, 102 Monroe St., Valparaiso. Interment will be at Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso.

Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. Tuesday at Bartholomew Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association. For more information, please call 462-4102.

www.bartholomewnewhard.com

Posted 10/30/2006