Walter L. Baker, 95, of Waco, passed away Wednesday, September 24th at a local hospice facility.
Funeral Services: 1PM Friday, September 26th at Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel. Burial with military honors will follow at Waco Memorial Park.
Visitation: 6 to 8PM Thursday, September 25th at Lake Shore Funeral Home.
Walter was born July 31, 1919 in Delta Co., near Cooper to E.J. and Lora (Crumbley) Baker. He served with the U.S. Army in the 36th Infantry Division- Eastern Theatre during World War II from November 1940 to July 1945. He received numerous awards including the Bronze Star but was most proud of the Combat Infantry Badge. He married Inez Graham on January 5, 1947 in Brownwood. They moved to Waco in 1964. Walter served as a district manager for World Book Encyclopedia for over 14 years, retiring in 1978. He then worked for American Amicable Life Insurance Co. in maintenance and security until September 1995. He was a member of Crestview Church of Christ for over 40 years.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Inez Baker; parents; sister, Erlene Smith, and dear friend, Helen Blankenship.
Survivors include son, Steve Baker and wife Lisa of Robinson; daughter, Janice Bruce and husband Garry of Axtell; granddaughters, Krystal Baker Cruse and husband Brian of Tyler, and Heather Roe Flores and husband Marco of Houston; grandsons, Scott Baker of Robinson, and Christopher Bruce and girlfriend Sarah Lester of Axtell; great grandsons, Layne Cruse, Austin Cruse, and Cash Boggs; sister, Anita Bush of Hurst; and several nieces and nephews.
“Our Dad was a sweet, gentle man who was loved by many. He cared for his wife when she was very ill until her death in 1971. He then raised his children alone while trying to make a living. He was a wonderful father. He will be greatly missed.”
Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online Guest Book at www.LakeShoreFuneralHome.com.
Place of Service: Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel , 5201 Steinbeck Bend; Waco, TX 76708
Print Obituary & Condolences
Janice, my heart goes out to all of you as I know how much your Dad was loved. One of my fondest memories is Heather’s wedding and watching her dance with him. What you’ve written about him being a sweet, gentle man is so fitting as that’s exactly how I remember him. It wasn’t often that I saw him but when I did that is who he was. Such a blessing for all of you to have someone like him to love so dearly. Prayers being said for all of you and may your memories warm your heart and help you through the days the lie ahead. Love you. Diana
We are sorry for your loss. Take comfort in knowing your Daddy is suffering no more and in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior. Janice I know how proud you are of your Dad, who served our country well. But I can bet you that he would consider his greatest accomlisment as raising his children and and being a GranDAD to his grandchildren. God Bless.
Thank you for allowing us to care for your father – our prayers are with your family. Susan Messer RN – Providence Hospice
Janice, My heart is over flowing with heart felt condolences on the loss of your Dad. I did not know him well but the times I was near him you could absolutely feel the love he had for his family. I know how very proud of him you were and he raised a very special girl in you. You and your family are near and dear to my heart and many prayers have been spoken for your and your family. Know that you were loved and are loved by so many. The days ahead will be very hard but know you are never alone. Love you sweet Janice.
Cindy