MICHAEL BAKER, OWNER OF BAKER SEED COMPANY
Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather Michael Kent Baker of West Salem, IL passed away on July 29, 2023, at the Skilled Care Unit of Fairfield Memorial Hospital at the age of 65.
Mike was born on July 25, 1958, in Carmi, IL to Ronald Dean and Barbara Elizabeth (Burroughs) Baker. He graduated from Grayville High School in 1976 then attended Lincoln Trail College in Robinson, IL where he graduated with an architectural drafting degree. After graduating in 1978 Mike married Deborah Clark on August 26 at the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Fairfield IL. They shared very close to 45 years together. To this union were born two children Daniel Wade and Shane Christopher. In July of 1981, Mike and Debbie purchased the former Campbell Grain & Seed Company in West Salem, IL which then became Baker Seed Company.
Mike was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in June of 1998. In 2016 his health condition worsened; he entered the nursing home in 2017. Mike loved to see his grandchildren come for visits. They were very special to him. Mike’s hobbies over the years have included collecting coins, national bank notes, and seed advertising items. He enjoyed attending auctions and learning about the history of his community. Mike was a member of the West Salem Masonic Lodge. He attended the First Christian Church of West Salem until his illness prevented him to from doing so.
He leaves behind his wife, Debbie; two sons Daniel and Shane (Natalie) Baker of West Salem, IL; Grandchildren Nova and Daxton Baker, Shelbi and Elli Conrad all of West Salem, IL. Survivors also include his mother Barbara Baker, brother Barry (Angela) Baker all of Carmi, IL; sister Sondra (Troy) Reisner of Colorado; several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Mike was preceded in death by his father Ronald Dean Baker, grandparents Arthur and Cumae Burroughs, Ivan and Carmen Baker.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to the Edwards County Ag In The Classroom Program or the First Christian Church, 207 W Church Street, West Salem IL 62476
Visitation will be held Friday, August 4th, 2023, from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., at Ingram Meridith Funeral Home in Albion IL.
Funeral service will be Friday, August 4th, 2023 at 11 a.m.
Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Grayville, IL.
Ingram Meridith Funeral Home, Albion, IL.
