Jeanette Ella Baker

Jeanette Ella Baker Gull Lake Jeanette Ella Baker, age 84, of Gull Lake, died Saturday afternoon, September 6, 2008, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. Jeanette was born on May 1, 1924 in Detroit, MI and was the daughter of Irving T. and Velma (Oliver) Peterson. She retired in 2000 after over 40 years of faithful service to the Department of Commerce-Census Bureau, where she had been a regional Supervisor. Jeanette had received numerous citations and awards from the Department of Commerce for her excellent work, including the prestigious Bronze Medal awarded to her in Washington, D.C. by the Secretary of the Department of Commerce. She was a Founding Member of the Gull Lake Area Community Church and a member of its Stephen's Ministry. Jeanette was a member of the Ladies of the Lake and thoroughly enjoyed her summer cottage that eventually became their permanent home in 1945. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, Bob, and they succeeded in visiting all 50 States and 47 Countries. You would often see Jeanette at Gull Lake School's sporting events, cheering on her beloved Blue Devils! Above all, Jeanette was dedicated to her entire family and supported Bob with his life's work. On May 29, 1943 in Holiday Cove, WV, Jeanette was united in marriage to Robert R. "Bob" Baker, a former Gull Lake School's Principal. He preceded her in death on June 18, 2002. Surviving are her daughter: Terry B. (John) Berryman, III of Lexington, MA; her two sons: Robert R. "Bob" (Janice) Baker, Jr. of Sacramento, CA and Brent O. Baker of Gull Lake, MI; eight grandchildren: Katie, Jenny, Becky, Scott and Amy Baker, all of California and Meghan, Jane and John Berryman, IV, all of Massachusetts; a great-great-grandson: Taylor Baker, and a sister-in-law: Larna Peterson of Michigan. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother: Paul Peterson. At the request of the family, friends may call on Friday, September 12th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Richland Chapel, 9170 East D Avenue. The funeral service to celebrate Jeanette's life will be held on Saturday, September 13th at 2:00 p.m. at the Gull Lake Area Community Church, 9292 East CD Avenue, Richland, MI 49083, with the Rev. James D. Hill, of Richland, officiating. Interment will follow at Yorkville Cemetery, Ross Township. Memorials contributions in Jeanette's honor may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, Michigan Chapter, 17117 W. Nine Mile Road, Suite #950, Southfield, MI 48075-4508. A personal message to the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com