Darwin Baker

DARWIN T. BAKER, 83 LOVES PARK - Darwin T. Baker, 83, of Loves Park passed away peacefully Sunday, May 8, 2011, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Darwin was born May 7, 1928, the son of William and Francis Baker. Darwin married Patricia on Aug. 19, 1988, in Rockton. He was a Mason of the Masonic Lodge 0014 Janesville Western Star, Wisconsin, and member of the Shriners for 25 years. Darwin was an avid NASCAR, Cubs, Bears, Bulls, Jimmy Buffet fan and was employed by Chrysler for 30 years. Survived by wife, Patricia of Loves Park, children, Jan (Steve) Gadow of Ocean Springs, Miss., Greg Baker of California, Julie Conner of Colorado and Jody Banning of Elgin; stepchildren, Cindy (DuWayne) Olson of Ridott, Allen Turley of Rockford and Jane Turley of Belvidere; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Predeceased by his parents, and stepson, Mark Turley of Belvidere. Memorial service at 11 a.m. Friday, May 13, at Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park, with a memorial gathering form 10 a.m. to time of service; the Rev. Brent Dahlseng of Grace Lutheran Church will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family for memorials to be established.