Stephen A. Baker, age 68, of Knoxville, Illinois died on Friday, January 21, 2021 at his home in Knoxville with his wife by his side, some of his favorite things and listening to the radio with his favorite songs.
He was born on September 29, 1953 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Galesburg, Illinois the son of Stanley J. and Bertha R. (Hanson) Baker. He attended and graduated from Knoxville High School in May of 1971 and then graduated from Western Illinois University with a BA in Education. He married Ellen G. Dikeman on October 11, 1986 in Yates City Presbyterian Church, in Yates City, Illinois.
Surviving his is wife Ellen Baker of Knoxville, Illinois and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
He worked as a teacher and a substitute teacher in the surrounding area for many years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Knoxville, Illinois, where he was baptized in April of 1966 and taught Sunday school for several years. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, they visited Niagara Falls every five years. He was an avid collector of Comic books and action figures, visiting area shops and shop while he traveled.
Thanks to St. Mary’s Medical Center ER for their care, Hospice Compassus and Courtyard Estates of Knoxville for their assistance through this difficult time and the friends that have recently reconnected with him.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at the Hurd-Hendricks Fellowship Hall with opening remarks by Rev. Jordan Knight. Memorial contributions may be made to Courtyard Estates Activity Fund or to Hospice Compassus. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory is assisting the family with his wishes. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
