Howard "Dean" Baker

Howard "Dean" D. Baker, a beloved member of the community of Van Buren, passed away on October 14, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on October 24, 1937, in Wabash, Indiana, Dean was a proud resident of Van Buren, Indiana, where he contributed to various aspects of community life. He graduated from Van Buren High School in 1955, and then he attended Lincoln Institution for 3 years. Dean married the love of his life, Marilyn (Bennett) Baker, on September 1, 1955.

Throughout his career, Dean worked as a Supervisor in the manufacturing industry, specifically at MacMillan Bloedel/Hankins Container, where he spent 22 dedicated years. He was known for his work ethic and professionalism, leaving a lasting impact on his colleagues and the industry as a whole.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Dean was a man of many talents and passions. He shared his musical abilities on WBAT in the 1940s as part of "The Pony Riders" and was actively involved in local organizations such as the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce and the Emergency Management Agency of Grant County. Dean also served on the Van Buren Town Board for two decades and co-owned "The Other Place" in Van Buren for 15 years.

A committed family man, Dean is survived by his loving spouse, Marilyn (Bennett) Baker, Upland; and his daughters, Vickie (Dave) King; Van Buren; and Deana (Tommy) St. John, Van Buren; sister-in-law, Joan Baker, Marion; grandchildren, Tim (Jennifer) Bishop; Katura Bishop; Chris (Andrea) Shively; Chad Shively; Courtney (Tyler) Seats; and Clay King; 16 great-grandchildren, and special friends, Deb and Bart Humphryes, and Mary and Ken McCollum.

Throughout his life, Dean found joy in spending time with his family, enjoying sports, particularly the Cubs, Colts, and Eastbrook Panthers, and engaging in activities like fishing and golfing. He was a member of Van Buren UMC, now named the Church of the Vine, and also associated with Pierce Church in Upland.

Dean's quick wit, warm presence, and love for his community will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Opal (Bashore) Baker; his brother, Jack Baker; and his grandson, Scott Bishop.

Arrangements for Dean have been entrusted to College Park Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 4601 South Western Avenue, Marion, Indiana 46953, where on Friday, October 18, 2024, the family will have a visitation from 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M., the funeral service will begin at 3:00 P.M. with Pastor Chad Yoder officiating, burial will immediately follow at Van Buren Cemetery, in Van Buren, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Dean to University Nursing Center to their activities program, 1564 University Boulevard, Upland, Indiana 46989.

Online memories and condolences may be left at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com.