Wayne W. Baker, 84, passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2014 in Dixon, Illinois. Wayne was born December 21, 1929 in Rochelle to Wayne and Ila (Harrolle) Baker. He was a farmer and worked for Del Monte for many years. Wayne married Mary Ann Hufford on October 1, 1950 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Rochelle. He loved camping with his R.V. friends. He drove all over this country with his life long companion of 63 years, all the way to Alaska enjoying God's beautiful country. They spent many winters in Texas hill country. Wayne fished in Canada many years with other friends. As a member of Kiwanis Golden K, he greatly enjoyed breakfast and the jokes! St. Paul Lutheran Church was always a big part of his life. He served on the church council several years. He found great comfort in being in nature hunting or just enjoying the wildlife and solitude. Wayne had a full and happy life with his wife, loved his kids, grandkids and great grandchildren. Family get-togethers were particularly special to him. Wayne was preceded by his parents, son, Rick, and daughter, Judy Finnestad, in January of 2013.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, two sons: Gary (Lori) Baker of Chana and Dave Baker of Rochelle; 13 grandchildren: Michael (Marie) Baker, John (Susan) Baker, Christopher Baker, Jacob Baker, Paul Mcloud, Christopher Mcloud, Molly Baker, Amanda Baker, Courtney Catron, Brittany Catron, Doug Baker, Leann (Andy) DeWitt and Rachel Baker; 10 great grandchildren: Marisa, Mariah, Morgan, Tyler, Emilee, Elizabeth, Riley, Tatum, Jordan and James and special friends: Ed Catron, Lori Catron and Pam Baker.

The funeral service will be 11:00 A.M., Friday, January 17, 2014 at St. Paul Lutheran Church. The visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. to 10:45 A.M., the same day as the funeral at the church. Burial will be at Trinity Memory Gardens in Rochelle. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or to Serenity Hospice.