Edna Jean "EJ" Baker, age 64, of Peoria, passed away Friday, September 20, 2013, at 1:05 a.m. at her residence.
She was born Monday, October 11, 1948, in Peoria to Louis and Gertrude Woelfle. She married Donald Baker on April 2, 1977, in Peoria. He survives along with two step-daughters: Tammy (Randy) Grieder of Morton, Donna (Jeremy) Fenison of Clinton, five step-grandchildren: Derek, Brittenelle, John, Emily, and Lydia, and one sister-in-law, Barb and Dale Bull of Germantown Hills.
Edna taught German, French, English and Latin at Peoria High School for 35 years. She was also an educator part time at Illinois Community College. She and her husband also tutored students for the ACT and SAT exams. She was also a Seamstress.
She was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church.
She courageously fought breast cancer for the last four years.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at 10 a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Visitation will be Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria. Additional visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the church.
Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.
Memorials may be made to Illinois Cancer Center on Rt. 91 or Redeemer Lutheran Church.
Please view Edna's obituary at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
November 17, 2013
Zach Jeremiah
Mrs. Baker was easily one of my favorite teachers ever, and will be sorely, sorely missed. My condolences to Mr. Baker and the whole family.
October 17, 2013
Mrs. Baker was a great tutor and a nice person. I will miss her. Josh whitworth
October 10, 2013
Alexandria Quinn
You will truly be missed Mrs. Baker
October 8, 2013
Missy Ricketts
I have been out of town. So sorry to hear about Edna.
October 3, 2013
Tricia Fox
Mrs. Baker was a wonderfully proud and dedicated educator. She will be missed by many.
October 1, 2013
Dear Baker Family, I was so sad to hear of Mrs. Bakers passing. Thoughts and prayers to all of you. Mr.Baker...I still miss you guys being up on Richwoods Blvd. I go by that house all the time and still think of you both and what wonderful people you truly are!!!! Rest in peace Mrs. Baker.
Sincerly,
Cathy Marvin
Class of 1976
September 30, 2013
Daniel Bayless
Your constant smile and understanding will be greatly missed! Am looking forward to the day we can all see each other again!
September 29, 2013
Don Baker
Rest of eulogy (PART TWO)
If I wote a good story, Bob Leavitt would ask me if my wife helped me write it. We met many great officials over the years including John duncan with whom we became friends with along with his wife Judy. edna loved to read but she also loved sports including Bradley basketball. John would tell me that he could always tell when the game he was officiating was getting boring because he would see edna pick up her book and start reading. I couldn't keep her supplied with enough books. She almost had one read by the time we got home from a book store. She also loved doing cross word puzzles and Sudukos. She rarely asked for a clue. Maybe she knew I didn't have one. She would occasionally ask me for a musical group clue.
She loved music introducing me to symphonies. I introduced her to rock concerts. She had to teach me not to applaud after each movement during a symphony. This past year she was proud to be a member of the Peoria Municipal Band comission.
Although Edna never had any children of her own, she understood her step-daughter donna loved her as a mother and she felt honored. Donna sent her a dozen pink roses for her to enjoy the last week of her life and she was thankful for them. Her step daughter Tammy was there at her bedside when she died. Her other children were all the students she got to help over the years. Tributes continue to pour in from them.
Edna loved to travel, especially to Germany where she still has family. Now she has a special all-inclusive vacationpackage that beats anything that Sandals or any other travel agency can offer. She has the eternal life package.
But it was Edna's faith that got her through life. She loved her Lutheran faith. She enjoyed attending church. She knew and believed in God's grace. She knew God had a reason for each action that involved her. Too many nights she would be ill in the bathroom during the night and I would ask her if she was alright and too many times the answer was "No." I now know I no longer have to ask her if everything is OK.
She is in Heaven and I know everything couldn't be better. Please listen to Pastor Myers' message. And than you for being a part of our lives. Edna and Don Baker thank you very much for being there for us and for being our friends -- you are truely God's gift to us. You helped put that beautiful smile on edna's face that so many mentioned. Thanks again.
Don Baker (husband and friend of Edna)
September 28, 2013
Don Baker
This is the eulogy I wrote and gave for edna at her funeral last Tuesday that many have requested. Thanks for wanting to remember her
Thanks for being here to help us celebrate the life of edna Baker. we are here to rejoice in the eternal life she is now experiencing and in her fiath that has sustained her thoughout her life and recent difficult times.
I will do my best to keep my composure. If I lose it, please bear with me. Remember the first BILE verse many of you learned because it was only two words? "Jesus Wept!" I have his permission to do likewise. Edna wanted me to write and deliver this eulogy for her.
Earth was a better place because of the life of edna Baker. Those of you who knew her well when asked about her would offer such words as intelligent, talented, creative, opinionated (did I mention she was german?), stubborn (did I mention she was German?), caring, courageous, and religious among others. As one of her recent caregivers said to me on Thursday, "Every talent and blessing that God gave to her, she used it to benefit others."
Whether it was tutoring students for the ACT/SAT so that students could get into colleges of their choice or qualify for scholarship money that allowed that to happen, Edna was there to see that they met their goals. When we got calls about great scores, she knew God was using us to have a better life and that was part of our mission on Earth.
Whether it was a bridesmaid or a young lady going to Prom who need a last-second alteration, she was there with her sewing skills. Edna could sew and cross stitch with the best of them. She did at least two quilts most years for seniors here at Redeemer to take with them when they left for college. She made her own wedding dress and entered it into the Heart of Illinois and won the first prize Blue Ribbon for it. It's probably a good thing that she didn't enter her husband choice for a prize. She could cross stitch anything and her multiple wall hangings she made will have a pernament place in my house forever. She made most of her own clothes including the dress she recently made and is wearing here today by her choice. She charged very little to others for her gifted sewing. I told her ladies chained to sewing machines in Third World Countries made more than she was charging, but she would shrug those shoulders and say, I like to sew and help others."
Oh, she also believed in the motto that she who had the most fabric at the end wins. I think she did win. The minutes we got to a new town on vacation, she checked the local phone book for the area fabric and quilt shops. I have been in more fabric and quilt shops than any other man, I'm sure. Ever been in the quilt shop in Paradise, Michigan? She wants her sewing room to go to her best friend Linda Diamond. They even shar a birthday together.
Whether it was a student in her developmental reading or English class at Illinois Central College where she taught for five years that needed extra help to understand a concept, Edna was there.
Edna graduated from Columbia Grade School, Peoria High School (where she returned to teach German, English, French, and one Latin student for 34 years), Bradley University, and the University of Nebraska
She was the business advisor for the Opinion, the school newspaper, where she sold advertising so I could spend it on the editorial side. We were co=-advisors.
We met at Peoria high School where we had the same lunch period and she shared her homemade granola with me. We went to see the movie "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" on our first date. Does that say anything about us?
Edna was definitely an over comer when it came to medical issues.
It was at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln where Edna first learned to deal with medical problems and adversity. during a blizzard there that shut down the university and food services, she got frost bite going out looking for food. That frost bitten foot was then always bigger than her other one making it difficult for her to find shoes that would fit both feet and she had a 5 1/2 shoe size on top of that. She learned to deal with it as she did with her many medical issues to come.
There was the herniated disc operation, there was the hysterectomy, there was the beginning of the breast cancer troubles in 2002. After two surgeries and the removal of 30-plus lymph nodes, she went through tough chemo and radiation. She lost her hai but never her dignity. It came back as she did. She started wearing a shorter cut after years of long black hair down to her waist. She had lymphodema which meant her one arm was always bigger and she couldn't have blood drawn from it or chemo administered in it so the other arm got all of the action. She was suppose to wear an arm wrap on her bigger arm. That didn't last long. The German stubbornness rose again.
God gave her seven years of remission and then it came back on her bladder four years ago and she has been battling the cancer ever since then with constant chemo three times a month.
This year she had a port put in because most of her veins had collapsed and it was hard for the nurses to administer chemo. Soon after that three blocj=kages were found caused by her cancer and she had a food stint put in which limited her food intake to pureed food if she followed doctors' orders. Paster Myers told her that pureed pizzan and beer might not be all that bad. She also had a illioscomy which changed her quality of life. She had to have her food stint cleaned after she refuses to limit her diet to pureed food. She said she would chew extra well. She had a tenderloin at Lou's Drive In the last day they were open this year. The German again. I finally told her that she didn't have to compete with JOB in the BIBLE but after reading JOB recently, I'm not so sure that she hasn't given him some competition. i am thankful she is no longer suffering.
She always said she was not going to allow her cancer to define who she was and it didn't until the very end when she was in Hospice and was ready to let go and was read to have Jesus grab her hand with his opening arms which she said she saw in her final days.
Edna loved Christmas. She put up four Christmas trees 99 percent by herself and decorated outside. She loved celebrating Christ's birth. When taking down the main tree last year, she looked at me and said, I hope this isn't the last time that I get to do this." This year she will have her best Christmas ever because she will be celebrating it with Jesus on his birthday. Being a German Lutheran she may be trying to introduce a Christmas tree if there isn't one already there.
But most of all Edna was my best friend and wife for the last 36 years. People didn't talk about Edna Baker or Don Baker. They talked about Don & Edna Baker. Knowing her feminist beliefs and that a man and woman are equal partners in a marriage, she is probably frowning because I didn't say Edna and Don baker. her spirit will live on with me. we have always been a team and she will be with me in spirit.
She was my partner at the disc jockey events we did together at wedding recpetions, school dances, anniversery parties. She could get all of the cd music cases to fit into our car trunk and I'm still trying to figure out how she did it. She would set up the lighting and arrange the music and then was my dinner partner. She would quickly make new friends at the dinner table and I would finally have to pull her away from her newfound friends so that she could help me look good. Those at the visitation (400 plus) and those looking around you today at the funeral service can see the friends edna so easily made.
When I worked at the Journal Star as a sports writer (Johnny Campos wrote about us in Thursday's edition of the JS on D2), she was with me. If we covered a basketball tournament, she would get the starting lineups and start keeping stats while I was writing a story on deadline.
(I will add the rest of the eulogy at PART Two later this weekend)
September 28, 2013
Becky (Shehan) Balkema
I heard about her passing while I was at redeemer last Sunday. I am so saddened by this news. Her passion for teaching German made learning it fun. So sorry for your loss Mr. Baker.
September 27, 2013
Amy Evernden
Dear Mr. Baker,
I was so saddened to hear of Edna's passing. May the memories you shared and God's love bring you comfort and peace. Continued prayers for you and your family.
Amy (Dornaus) Evernden
September 26, 2013
Don Baker
I want to thank all of the people who made such wonderful comments about my wife. I enjoyed the 36 years we were married and will miss her more than you can imagine. We were extremely close and did almost everything together. We loved being a part of the Peoria High family for years and enjoyed tutoring students for the ACT/SAT and disc jockeying many area weddings.. I have one for one of my former students this Saturday. Thanks for the outpouring of your love and for remembering us with such kind memories and love. It was interesting that you could sense our love even when you saw us as teachers at PHS. I'm not sure I was that mature when I was in high school to have that much insight but you were right on. I will try to include the eulogy I wrote for her and delievered for her at her funeral on Tuesday. If the guestbook will allow that much room, I will add it. Thanks again for being apart of our great memories and for your prayers and thoughts. Keep them coming and keep in touch. I am on Facebook. Thanks again Don Baker
September 26, 2013
Grace Jeffries
Don, Tammy,and Donna so sorry to hear of Ednas passing. Thoughts and prayers are sent to you.
September 26, 2013
Laura Garfinkel
Don I am thinking of you. Out of town but will connect with you when I return home. I am so sorry to hear this news. love, Laura
September 26, 2013
Abby Davison
Professor Baker I am so sorry to hear about your loss, I hope you find comfort in family and friends during this time continue to be one of the best professors I'v ever had.
September 26, 2013
Laura Renee Beil-Drake
Mr. Baker, although I don't have the pleasure of having your wife as my teacher, I did have you for Sophomore Enriched English. I saw how you loved her. How you both worked together to make the bumpy road of High School fun and upbeat. Let me add my condolences to you and your family. The passing of your sweet wife is a heavy blow to you, to students past, present and future. It hurts that so many students will miss out on her smile and her zest for teaching. I count myself blessed to have known you both. I pray for you as you contemplate life on earth without her. Until you meet agin, God. Bless!
September 26, 2013
Vicki Clemons
So very sorry to read of your wife's passing. May fond memories of your time together help sustain you during this difficult time. Fondly, Vicki Clemons
September 26, 2013
Christian Naven
Mrs. Baker was a wonderful lady with a smile that always lit up the halls at Peoria High. She will be missed & my prayers are with you & your family Mr. Baker!
Sincerely, Christian Naven
September 26, 2013
Molly McGowan
Mrs. Baker was such a sweet woman. I was in high school when she was going through chemo about 10 years ago. She was so positive. She made it look easy. I really enjoyed her as a teacher. I'm terribly sorry to her of her passing. She has work elsewhere, and will continue to be a sweet spirit.
September 25, 2013
Steve Jaeger
I never had Mrs. Baker for class, but enjoyed every interaction I had with her as a PHS student. She was a warm and wonderful woman, and I'll miss her greatly! Mr. Baker, the Lord's grace and comfort to you.
September 25, 2013
Barbara & Joe Emanuel
Dear Mr. Baker and Family,
We are saddened to hear of your sweet wife's passing. Please accept our sympathy and prayers during this difficult time.
God's blessings.
September 25, 2013
Harish Pithadia
Don,
Sorry for your loss. Our Condolences to you.
September 25, 2013
Cindy Hoey
Mr. Baker -- So sorry to hear of Mrs. Baker's death. We will miss her smiling face at Corn
Stock.
September 25, 2013
Don, Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with you. Edna has a special place in our hearts and has significantly touched the lives of our boys through her ACT tutoring. We will miss her! Brent, Lynne Teubel and Boys
September 25, 2013
Regina Armstrong
My condolences to the family. She was an amazing person and will be missed greatly. Cherish the fact that she really made her mark on this world with constantly doing what she loved which was teaching!
September 25, 2013
Chalise Scholl
Mrs. Baker was my English teacher my Junior year, it saddens me to hear of her passing praying for Mr. Baker and family she touched many Class of 2000 send our condolences
September 24, 2013
Heather Haynes (Buhl) Class of 96
Frau Baker is a teacher I will never forget from my High School days at PHS. She was one of those teachers that left a lasting impression on her students and anyone who knew her. I have great memories from my German class, even if I don't remember much of the German I learned (lol). As an adult I got to see Mr and Mrs Baker at the Mall walking. Such a great couple! Always friendly and great to talk with. I will miss her smiling face. Also my thoughts and prayers are with Mr Baker and Family at this time. God be with you! Frau Baker...bis wir wieder treffen im Himmel.
September 24, 2013
Jana LaHood Olvera
Just wanted to add my voice to so many others in offering condolences upon the loss of Mrs. Baker . . . she was such a special person.
She was my German teacher for four years and I always loved her class as it was both enjoyable and challenging. I also have such fond memories of working with her as part of the Opinion staff after school, which gave me an insider's view of how dedicated she was to the students at PHS. She was brilliant, talented, and also very funny--I loved hearing her laugh and seeing her eyes sparkle. She conveyed a warmth and affection for her students that is very rare. I am a better person because she was a part of my life during those formative years, and I am so grateful to have known her.
Our family is praying for yours--may you be comforted by the wonderful memories you share, and by the knowledge that Edna is at home in heaven, free from pain and suffering.
September 24, 2013
Don and Family - I am so sorry for your loss. Although I had not known Edna long, I did appreciate her kindness and cheerfulness. Even with all that she had been going through, I remember her always smiling. I will be thinking of you and praying for you. Keith Hembrey
September 24, 2013
debbie schwindenhammer
so very sorry to hear about your wife's passing she was so sweet looked forward to seeing her on your walks in the mall
September 24, 2013
Lon Furness
Don, I will miss seeing you two walking by. Hope you continue & stop & visit.
Lon
September 24, 2013
Betty and Jim Pugh
We will miss Edna so much! She was always such a shining star in your bible study classes and so cheerful and inspiring during her fight with cancer.
September 24, 2013
Andy Ogburn
Don,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Thank you for all that Edna and you have done for me.
With Sympathy,
Andy Ogburn
September 23, 2013
Dawn Witt
Don,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time. Although I didn't know her well, whenever I saw Edna she was always smiling and happy. I could tell you and she were a good match.
She fought a hard fight in these last months. I pray she is finally at peace and in no pain. I am sorry for your loss.
September 23, 2013
Jim and Margie Barnes
Don,
We're so sorry to hear of your dear wife's passing. We will keep you and yours in prayer this month.
(8-8-08)
September 23, 2013
HI DON, WE SEND OUR SYMPATHY & PRAYERS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU ANYTIME.YOU HAVE SO MANY WONDERFUL MEMORIES AT HOME AND ABROAD! BOTH OF YOU ARE SPECIAL PEOPLE WITH SO MANY TALENTS. YOUR FAITH HAS BEEN SO STRONG. GOD WILL BE WITH YOU NOW AND HAS A VERY WONDERFUL ANGEL TO WATCH OVER YOU. OUR FRIENDSHIP, OUR SYMPATHY, GOD'S BLESSINGS, DIANE & DALE PORCH
September 23, 2013
Pam & Mike Ogburn
Dearest Don,
Mike and I are so sorry to hear of your loss of dear Edna. I always enjoyed visiting with Edna while you tutored Andy. She always shared her smile with all who knew her. Thank you both for being an inspiration to our son and to us. May God bless you and your family.
Love and prayers,
Pam & Mike Ogburn
Norfork, AR
September 23, 2013
Don,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Cleatus & Nadine
September 23, 2013
Martha Schmitt
Dear Don,
Hank and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family upon your wife's passing.
September 23, 2013
Don,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember the great memories of when I was a student teacher with you and got to know you and Edna. We always remained friends with our Christmas greetings and forever cherish the friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time, and so sorry I could not attend the visition or services due to my service of working here at OSF. Much Love, Karla Franson...
September 23, 2013
Emily Dunlap Loach
Mr. Baker,
I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Baker was a kind and lovely woman. You are in my thoughts.
September 23, 2013
Helen Krause
Don and family,
Picture a place of joy and beauty, and then picture Edna there, pain free and smiling. It seems like only yesterday when she and I were grad students together. She will be missed greatly and remembered greatly. I pray that in time your sadness will be replaced by the wonderful happy memories you shared.
September 23, 2013
Mr Baker and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs Baker will be missed and you and your family are in my prayers.
September 23, 2013
Sheri Stevens Strohl
Mr. Baker and family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. Mrs. Baker was a wonderful teacher and person. May she rest in peace.
September 23, 2013
Karen Emanuel Miller
Mr. Baker and family,
I was so shocked to hear of Mrs. Baker's passing. I only recently learned she had been fighting breast cancer. While I never had her for class, so many of my friends did and I heard great things about her during all my high school years. Whenever I saw her in the halls, she was always happy and smiling. It was so great seeing the love the two of you shared as we students walked the halls of PHS. You and your family are in my prayers. May God bring you comfort during this difficult time.
September 23, 2013
Natasha Croff-Rickett
Mr. Baker and Family, I am so sorry for your loss of a beautiful woman. I'm praying for your strength and peace during this time.
September 23, 2013
Rodney Miller
Mr Baker, my family and I stand in the gap in prayer for you and your family on this loss. God is so wonderful that he would not allow us to be alone but in the company of others who also love you. Be blessed and of good courage. Edna will truly be kisser.
September 23, 2013
Coleen Jo Caldwell
What a shock - actually, Mr Baker, our daughter Kim Caldwell Wildebuer sent me the link to Mrs Baker's obituary from her home in New Brighton, MN. Both of our girls, Jennifer Caldwell Zilch and Kim remember both of you so well. I have you in my prayers and will pray that God has you in His arms and that you'll lean on Him through this time. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family.
God bless you - Coleen Jo & Jerry Caldwell (parents of some of your previous students)
September 23, 2013
Janice Tamplin
Mr. Baker,
You and your wife are wonderful people. You both gave me a since of direction and changed my life for the better. RIP Edna Baker......
September 23, 2013
Barbara (Grebner) Ginsberg
Mr. Baker, I am so saddened to hear of the loss of Mrs. Baker. She was a wonderful woman and a bright spot in my high school career. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love to you.
September 23, 2013
Lisa Dallmeyer
Edna was such an awesome person, warm, intelligent and really fun from my recall of German class and for many years afterwards. A truly gifted person and one that will be greatly missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers, Don!
Lisa Dallmeyer, Waukegan, IL
September 23, 2013
Leslea Pettett
Mrs. Baker was a wonderful teacher. She had a smile for me every day. My condolences to Mr. Baker and family.
September 23, 2013
Carla Johnson
Don, My deepest sympathies and prayers are with you. I know you will greatly miss your partner in all that you do. Edna was such a wonderful person and her personality radiated as brightly as her smile. We will greatly miss having her here to share with us at Proctor Place. God bless you...
September 23, 2013
The Hensons
Don, both you and Edna have been such an inspiration to our kids and you have impacted each of them through the tutoring. She will be missed! Our prayers are with you and your family.
September 23, 2013
Mike Foster
Dear Don & family:
Edna will live on in the lives of the thousands of students she taught and influenced: the true legacy of a teacher's life.
Mike Foster
September 23, 2013
Arieus English
Mrs. Baker was one of my favorite teachers at ICC North Campus. She always went out of her way for her students. She always took the time to make sure we were all doing okay. I am going to miss her so much. Prays go out to Mr.Baker and their family. May Mrs. Edna Baker rest in peace.
September 23, 2013
John Duncan
Don, You and your family are in our prayers. Just reading these tributes to Edna and yourself is so inspiring. You both meant so much to so many people.You and Edna's friendship has meant alot to both Judy and I. Knowing Edna is no longer in pain and in a much better place hopefully will help with the grief.RIP Edna you affected so many people in a positive way.
John & Judy Duncan
September 23, 2013
Kate Murray
I will never forget the difference that Mrs. Baker made in my life..as a teacher, but more importantly, as an amazing woman! She will be greatly missed. Prayers and love sent your way, Mr. baker!
September 23, 2013
Ron Zipfel
So sorry to hear of Edna's passing, Don! Such a sweet lady she was! I will miss her smile & getting a hug whenever I saw her. Thoughts & prayer are with you & all your family! Edna will be missed. God bless!
September 23, 2013
Bart
Mr. Baker - my deepest condolences for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers today.
September 23, 2013
Sue King(Hammer)
Don,
Edna was such a wonderful person, teacher and friend. She faught so courageously against cancer, I am so sorry she lost the battle. You are both so special to me and my family. Words cannot express the loss I feel.
My prayers are with you through this difficult time
September 23, 2013
Don, You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I enjoyed working with Edna. She was so dedicated to her students. We will all miss seeing her wonderful smile. I am sorry I will not be able to come to the visitation or funeral.
Carol Nelson
September 23, 2013
Jeanne Barclay
Don -- reading through 8 pages of notes about Edna is such a wonderful testimony to what a treasure she was!!!!! We have only known her since the beginning of the cancer battle....my daughters Claire and Emma and I were greatly touched by her faith, her courage, her wonderful attitude, and the talents God had bestowed on her, which she so freely shared with others. I am grateful that we were given the gift of knowing her. May you be blessed with millions of wonderful memories.
September 23, 2013
Shari Dinkins
The Baker family must be suffering terribly. Edna was such a bright star -- not only here at ICC, but also in our community. My prayers go out to Don and the family. Shari Dinkins
September 23, 2013
Brian Emanuel
Dear Mr. Baker,
I am sorry to hear of your wife's passing. You are in my prayers today. I never had her for class at PHS, but I always heard great things about her from her students. As a student, I could definitely see the love and respect you two had for eachother.
September 23, 2013
John Disharoon
Much too soon, Don. Edna had that abilility to connect with everyone and remember us all! Please find comfort in knowing that she is in a better place now. God Bless you and the family. JTD
September 23, 2013
Jennifer O'Neil
When I heard of Edna's passing, I had a little chat with her, and she brought me great peace and comfort knowing she is no longer suffering, no longer in pain. She was and will continue to be an inspiration to me and, I'm sure, many others. I never saw a frown on her face, even during the worst of it. I never heard her say an unkind word. What I did see and hear was a wonderful, lovely, vibrant person who we were all incredibly blessed to have known.
I am sad that she is no longer here, but I rejoice in the fact that she is at peace and I know she is smiling upon all of us, and will wait for that day when she will be rejoined by her love, Don.
I shall not mourn Edna's passing, but celebrate the inspirational life she lived and all the lives she touched.
I miss you and love you, Edna. Congratulations on the wings.
September 23, 2013
Susan Hillabold
Don, I'm so shocked and saddened to hear of Edna's passing. The last time I saw you both, at our house, you both seemed so positive and upbeat. This just attests to your courageous approach to cancer. You never wanted to burden others. My thoughts are with you, Don.
September 23, 2013
Paul Filip
Don....I am so sorry to hear this news. I loved always seeing her smile and attitude when I would run into you two. Thoughts and Prayers are with you during this time.
September 23, 2013
Nardica Buckner
Don I'm so sorry for your loss. Edna was such a sweet person and such a dedicated teacher. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
September 23, 2013
Ken Worthington
I sat behind Edna in so many classes at PHS because they always seated us alphabetically. She was such a good person and a great friend during our time at PHS. God bless.
September 23, 2013
Jerry DeVore
All my best to Don and the family
September 23, 2013
Shari West
Don, I am so sorry to hear of Edna's passing. I loved sharing the office with her as she added so much life, laughter, and possitive energy to the atmosphere. She gave so much to all who knew her. We will all miss her very much. Although I am out of the country, I want you to know that you will be in my my thoughts and prayers eventhough I cannot be there in person.
September 22, 2013
Katie Grady
I never had Mrs. Baker as a teacher, though many of my friends did. But that didn't stop her from letting me "invade" her class if the Spanish classes were having a study day or shared movie viewings. She offered her room as a place for us to sort out our disagreements, too, giving us the space we needed but keeping a watchful eye from the background. And it was clear to any kid at PHS who knew the Bakers just how much they cared about each other.
After PHS, it was nice to run into the Bakers and know she still remembered me - even if Mr. Baker (who was my teacher) wasn't around to say my name. It meant a lot that someone I had respected, but had never had as a teacher, still cared enough to know my name then and to remember it later.
I'd run into her doing Race for the Cure activities as well, and she was always so cheerful.
She was a wonderful woman, and will be missed.
September 22, 2013
Cynthia Sauder
Dear Don,
Our deepest sympathy and prayers. Edna was a good friend all the way back to Columbia Grade School. She will be missed. Les and Cynthia (Hudgens) Sauder
September 22, 2013
Melissa and Paul Hinton
Mr Baker, Don I am so sorry to hear of Edna passing... you are in my thoughts and my prayers... Take comfort in knowing that she is with the Lord and pain free... Paul and I love you both...
September 22, 2013
Jody Hoerr
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
September 22, 2013
Betsy (Lueders) McLaurin
Dear Mr. Baker,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Mrs. Baker was an amazing woman, and I was so very sorry to hear of her struggle with cancer and of her passing. I have only the best memories of you both from my years at PHS. I can see from viewing your photos that the two of you continued to travel. One of my most treasured memories was of our trip to NYC in 1979. I was only 15 years old, but I remember it as if it were yesterday. I thank you both for the opportunity to travel with you, and for all that you shared with us. I am very sorry for your loss.
September 22, 2013
Natalie (Kirk)Glanzman
Mr. Baker & Family - I am so sorry to hear of Mrs. Baker's passing - she was my German teacher at Central and one of my favorites! Her smile is exactly as I remember - enthusiatic and happy! My thoughts and prayers are with you & your family at this time...
September 22, 2013
Nancy Sarmiento
Don, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear Edna.I have always been inspired by your devotion to each other, your teaching and tutoring, daily walks, dejaying together, trips, concerts. Edna was devoted to her students and not only touched many lives, but made a difference in the lives of many. Edna always had a moment to listen to my issues, and was so supportive of Amanda and Joey and thier journey with cancer. I understand how cancer changes families forever. May you have comfort in knowing that Edna is at peace now, she does not have to suffer any more. She was one of the most courageous people I have known. I will miss her greatly. May you find peace and comfort in your memories, family and friends.
September 22, 2013
Penny Murphy
Dear Don,
I am so sorry to hear of Edna's passing. You two fought this battle together as the team that you have always been. Please accept my deepest sympathy and prayers for you and your family.
Penny Murphy
September 22, 2013
Ryan Carballido
Mrs. Baker was such a sweet and nice lady. I actually looked forward to going to the Baker's house for ACT prep! Mrs. Baker was so helpful and I continue to be very appreciate of all the work she did to help me get into WashU in STL. Mr. Baker, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 22, 2013
So sorry to learn of Edna's death. She was such a lovely person. Loved seeing her each year at Princeville basketball games, talking about everything including our German roots. You are in my thoughts. Ginny Gilles, Princeville.
September 22, 2013
Ann Tindall
Don,
My sincere sympathy to you and your family. I just learned several months ago that her cancer had spread. What a battle she fought. She was a part of my entire PHS career, first as a student, and then a long time faculty member. She was a great person, teacher and friend, and now a saint in Heaven. RIP Edna and peace to you.
September 22, 2013
Becky (Runyon) Thomas
I was very saddened to hear about Edna. She was an amazing soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 22, 2013
Carmel & Alex Hodge
Dear Mr. Baker and family,
We are very sorry to hear about Mrs. Baker. Her smile was always infectious. I will never forget how devoted she was to her students and all the help she gave the staff of the Opinion. You are in our prayers.
September 22, 2013
Don,
May you find GREAT COMFORT in all the lives both you and Edna have enriched. You were a team that was an inspiration to all. Please know that you have the prayers of many to gather the strength you need to courageously march forward. Edna will continue to be your shining star to guide the way. Love and respect, Your friend and colleague, Barbara Sumner
September 22, 2013
Marcy (Grady) Miller
Mrs. Baker was a kind and generous spirit with a terrific, infectious laugh. It was obvious to all of us at PHS that she and Mr. Baker were deeply in love with each other. My thoughts are with her family. I know she will be missed by many, myself included.
September 22, 2013
Kim Schaffer-Howe
Mr Baker,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of my years at PHS with both you and Mrs. Baker. Heaven got an angel. Your family will be in our prayers.
September 22, 2013
Kathy Chittick
Edna was an example for us all. She was an angel on earth and is now in Heaven. Don, you have my prayers and love. It was an honor to know her. Kathy Chittick
September 22, 2013
Chuck Walter
Don, my deepest sympathy to you and your family on the passing of Edna.
September 22, 2013
Linda & Rick Campen
Don,
We were so very sorry to hear that Edna lost her battle with cancer. She was a lovely lady, always a beautiful smile on her face. She touched the lives of many children who were so very lucky to have her as their teacher. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Don, we know how much you cherished each other.
September 22, 2013
Pam Hagaman
Don, My prayers are with you and your family.
September 21, 2013
Mike & Sandy Pryor
Don:
Sorry to hear of Edna's passing. Please accept our deepest condolences. She was such a courageous person who was always by your side. Our thoughts and prayers with you and your family.
September 21, 2013
Connie & Greg Pilon
Our hearts go out to you, Don. The world was a far more beautiful place with Edna in it.
September 21, 2013
Amanda, RN
Don - it was an honor to get to meet you both. My condolences to you and your family.
September 21, 2013
Wesley Aldroubi
Mrs. Baker was awesome - kind, and open as a teacher and a person. Mr. Baker, may God hold your heart. My prayers are with your whole family.
September 21, 2013
Matthew Henson
Mrs. Baker taught me German at PHS. She was such a wonderful teacher and made such a lasting impression me! I was deeply saddened to hear of her passing. My deepest sympathies to the Baker Family. Frau Baker, Sie entgehen lassen!
September 21, 2013
Paula Powers-Kounse
I am so sorry for your loss. She was such a wonderful lady and truly a gift to those of us who were her students. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
September 21, 2013
Dianna Russick
Don- Edna was always an inspiration to both Chris and myself in her courageous battle with cancer. We will miss her. Praying you will find peace whenever you look at her beautiful smile. Dianna Russick
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