Gerald D. Baker
Gerald “Jerry” Douglas Baker, 76, a proud veteran and hard worker, of Potterville, died April 10, 2018. He was born February 20, 1942 in Charlotte to Don W. and Margaret (James) Miller. Jerry worked at Minor Walton Bean Company before enlisting in the Army and serving in Vietnam. He was known as a Buck Sergeant because he was older than others that enlisted. Jerry had a pet monkey during the war that was great at finding venomous snakes, and he was awarded two Bronze Stars during his time in Vietnam. He loved this country and was proud that he was able to serve his country.
Jerry was brave, generous, and the “Rock” of the family. He enjoyed mowing, so much so that he volunteered to mow Lake Alliance. His love for mowing came from his work with The City of Lansing where he worked in the Parks and Recreation Department prior to his retirement. Jerry also enjoyed fishing (especially at Tippy Dam and Cedar Lake), going to the casino, road trips, yard sales, and looked forward to playing cards with his poker and cribbage family every day.
Jerry is survived by his five children, Bill (Patti) Hoffman, Reda (Ron) Hoffman, Steve (Teresa) Hoffman, Scott (Deb) Baker, Brad (Darlene) Baker; grandchildren, Jessica, Matt, Wesley, Nathan, Michael, Steven, Christopher, Josh, Cameron, Chelsea, Andrew, Savanah, Jessie, Tyler, and Leonard; 17 great-grandchildren; siblings, Ron (Iwana) Miller, Donna (Mark) Ransom, Cindy Miller, Cathy (Mark) Jacobs, Don (Carol) Miller and Jim Baker; his chocolate lab, Patty; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Patricia; daughters, Angela Baker and Cindy Hoffman; and grandson, Ronald Hoffman.
Friends of Jerry are encouraged to show their support for his family at visitation on Sunday, April 15, 2018, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Monday, April 16, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home, with Rev. Koepke officiating.
If desired the family suggests memorial contributions be in Jerry’s honor to the US Department of Veterans Affairs.
Friends and family are also encouraged to share memories of Jerry on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.