Mike Baker

Celebration of life will be held for Mike Baker, 71, of Rathbun, Iowa on September 20, 2020, at the Mike Baker Bandstand in Rathbun, Iowa from 5:00-7:00 p.m., with the Veteran Service beginning at 5:00 p.m. The service will be available for viewing at . Virgil Michael Baker was born on October 9, 1948, to Kenneth and Flossie (Penick) Baker. He grew up in Lucas and graduated from Chariton High School in 1967. From there, Mike went on to college at the Evangelical College in Springfield, MO. He was kicked out for riding his motorcycle through the hallway, among a few other things. Mike was a member of the 25th infantry division and the wolfhounds, earning two Purple Hearts and a bronze star. He worked at the Hy-Vee Distribution Center, retiring in 1998. After retirement, he continued to work for the RPW in Indianola, IA. He married Phyllis Burns and to this union was blessed with four children, Kellie, Scott, Jennifer, and Julie. He later married Cindy Butler and to this union was blessed with three children; Anna, Mandy, and Wendy. Mike would often go to auctions to see what treasures he could find. He had a great love for the outdoors, enjoying fishing, hunting, and shooting. He enjoyed time with his friends Doc, Ron (Zeke), Roger, Rex, Ralph, and Al. They referred to themselves as the good ole boys club. They did a lot of fishing, golfing, playing poker, and making music together, especially at Rathbun where Mike lived the last ten years. He enjoyed getting everyone together to tell jokes and stories (especially to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren) and of course to tease one another. Many of these get-togethers would include a fish fry and playing games. Some of Mike's favorite games were pinochle, poker, croquet, horseshoes, and gambling. It was often said that Lakeside might go bankrupt if it weren't for Mike. It was just a week ago, he had went to the casino and stated he even felt better once he was there. Mike will be remembered for having fun and his love for others. He passed these traits down to his kids as well. He also had a very deep faith and loved to help people. He was a great creative thinker and problem-solver. He could fix just about anything or at least make it work. Mike is survived by his children: Kellie Baker (Steve Neer), Scott (Tami) Baker, Jennifer (Brian) Crozier, Julie (Tim) Johnson, Anna (Jim) Rowe, Mandy Keller (Jason Dittmer), and Wendy Fisher (Jake West); 18 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and sisters, Becky (Ron) Goodrich and Mary (Todd) Enterline; along with many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Flossie (Penick) Baker; his grandchild, Riley; and great-grandchild, Bryton. Celebration of Life

SEP 20. 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (CST)

Mike Baker Bandstand at the Rathbun City Park

Rathbun, IA 52544