Eugene J. "Sparky" Baker

BAKER – Eugene J. "Sparky," 76, Martindale, died June 25, 2009, at Memorial Hospital, Johnstown. Born Feb. 5, 1933, in Puritan, the son of John and Margaret (Markovich) Baker. Preceded in death by parents. Survived by loving wife of 52 years, the former Dorothy Zdunczyk; and children, Joni, wife of Kenneth Bopp, Mineral Point; and John, and wife, Susan (Pohopin) Baker; and Larry Baker, both of Portage. Also survived by grandchildren, Jerrad, who is currently serving a tour of duty in Iraq; John and Shane Baker; Kaylee Bopp; Kacie and Madicyn Baker; and his right-hand man grandson, Brandon Baker. Brother of Jeannett Tavernini, Portage. Eugene was a Korean War Navy veteran, who served on the USS Wisconsin. A former forman for Bethlehem Mine 33. Life member of the Portage Amvets Post 150, American Legion Post 430 and the VFW Post 895. He was one of the original members of the Portage Sportsmen's, and he was a member of the TAPP and Benscreek Club and an Honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus. Eugene also was a Hunter Safety Course instructor and he was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. Friends will be received from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday and from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday at the Dennis C. Beck Funeral Home, Portage. Funeral Mass will be held at noon Monday at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Father Walter Moll, celebrant. Committal in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Johnstown.