Norman Baker (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Norman Keith Baker, 81, died on Monday, July 30, 2018 at his home in Collins, MO.
He was born on December 22, 1936, in Winter, Wisconsin, to Samuel Mansel Baker and Ester Marie Bouvy Baker. At an early age, the family moved to La Crosse, Wisconsin where he attended grade and high school. At age 16 Norman joined the Air Force with the help of his father's fudging a little on his age. He served 6 years and was a Korean War Veteran. After leaving the Air Force, he went to work for the Chicago North Shore Railroad until they closed. Norman then went to work for the M & St. L Railroad. He worked there until 1968, when he moved to Independence, MO, and started working for the MP Railroad from which he retired as a conductor-brakeman. In March of 1989 Norman married Peggy Jo Carnes of Fair Play, MO.
Norman served for many years as a volunteer firefighter in Collins, MO, where he held various positions on the department. He has served the past 6 years as Chairman of the Board for the Collins Fire Protection District. He also serves several years as a deputy Sherriff in Polk County, Iowa and St. Clair County, Missouri.
Norman is preceded in death by his father, mother, sister Sharon Baker, and his loving wife, Peggy. He leaves behind his son, Dennis, of Kansas City, MO, daughter, Cindy, of Waco, Texas, stepdaughter, Carla Vincel of Springfield, MO, stepsons, Kenny Smith of Texas, Phillip Smith of
Colorado, brother, Dennis of Woodberry, Minnesota, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
What’s your fondest memory of Norman?
What’s a lesson you learned from Norman?
Share a story where Norman's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Norman you’ll never forget.
How did Norman make you smile?
