Joan Ann Baker

Joan Ann (Schaefer) Baker, 85, of Upton, devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, March 19th, 2025. Born in Worcester and raised in Auburn, MA Joan was the daughter of Adelle Schaefer and Herman Schaefer.

Joan married John P. Baker on June 7th, 1958, and together they were long-term residents of Upton. They had three children – John Baker married to Annette Baker of Grafton, Tammy Flanagan married to Paul Flanagan of Holliston, and Michele Laflash married to Gerard Laflash II of Millbury.

Joan held many different responsibilities throughout her life. She was a Leader of Cub Scout Den, Girl Scout Troop, and 4-H club. Joan worked at Mass Electric and was a Lunch Lady for Upton Elementary School. She was a secretary for the Upton Finance and Conservation Committee. Joan enjoyed spending time with her family including her ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was a devoted Catholic and enjoyed playing the piano and gardening. Joan loved Santa Claus and collected many figurines of him throughout the years. She will be missed. 

All are welcome to attend calling hours on Monday, March 24th, from 5 to 7 P.M. in the Pickering and Son Upton Funeral Home, 45 Main Street, Upton.

Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 A.M. on Tuesday, March 25th, in St. Gabriel the Archangel Church, 151 Mendon Street, Upton.  Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Upton. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to American Red Cross at redcross.org/donate or American Kidney Foundation give.kidneyfund.org