Bill Baker's Obituary
Irvin "Bill" Baker, age 91, of Centerville, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 17, 2026, surrounded by the memories of a life well lived.
Bill was born on September 30, 1934, in Seymour, Iowa, the son of Kermit and Cleta (Brown) Baker. Bill graduated from Centerville High School with the Class of 1952 and remained proud of his roots and the community he called home.
On August 11, 1961, Bill was united in marriage to Carolyn Mae Hopkins. Together they built a loving family and shared many years of laughter, adventure, and devotion. Their marriage was blessed with four sons: David, Paul, Dennis, and Michael.
Bill had a passion for the simple joys in life and never met a stranger. He was happiest outdoors or on the hunt for his next treasure, whether that meant "junkin," collecting scrap metal, mushroom hunting in the spring woods, or casting a fishing line into a quiet pond. He loved taking vacations, camping trips, and spending time with friends on 18-80 Club outings. Bill dedicated 32 years, and 9 months at Viskase in Centerville in the maintenance department before he retired and 25 years volunteering with the 18-80 Club, where his dependable nature and friendly spirit made a lasting impact on many lives.
A familiar face at antique tractor pulls and Old Threshers gatherings, Bill appreciated the craftsmanship and history of old machinery and enjoyed sharing stories with fellow enthusiasts. He had a knack for finding value in things others overlooked, and his humor, wisdom, and hardworking spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.
More than anything, Bill cherished time spent with family and friends. He was always there for his family, no matter what. He enjoyed going to Paul’s shop daily, enjoying the company of friends and family. His quiet strength, generous heart, and steady presence created a legacy that will continue through those who loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, Bill leaves behind countless treasured memories of campfires, fishing stories, tractor engines, and laughter shared with the people he loved most.
Those left to honor Bill's memory are his children, Dennis (Denise) Baker, Paul (Lisa) Baker, and Michael Baker; eleven grandchildren, Travis (Ericka) Ashby, Michelea (Joe) Mikels, Amanda (Jared) Hraha, Chelsey (Quadare) Baker, Jessica (John) Baker, Rachelle Baker, Alisha Douglas, Brittany Baker, Krystal Baker, Amber Essary, Jenine Conway, and Jessica Mozo; eighteen great grandchildren, Eriney, Hayden, Nolan, Kenzi, Emily, Alex, Bodie, Brady, Emmalyn, Aurora, Owen, Abiola, Colsen, Javen, Shayla, Bryce, Brett and Brielle; his sister, Betty Sager; his sister-in-law, Marilyn Kaster; as well as numerous extended family members.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Mae Baker on January 13, 2024; his parents, Kermit and Cleta Baker; his son, David Baker; his sisters, Mary Stufflebeem and Zelda Baker; and his brother-in-law, Don Kaster.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30AM, Friday, May 22, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville. Burial will follow the service at Haines Cemetery, north of Centerville. Visitation will take place Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville, with the family greeting friends from 5:00PM-7:00PM. Memorials have been established to Haines Cemetery, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Baker Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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