Locey Bernard "Bill" Baker

Locey Bernard "Bill" Baker, 89, of Peoria, IL, left this earth peacefully in his sleep on September 20, 2025, leaving behind his legacy in his loved ones which he will be greatly missed by.

Bill was born in Cairo, IL, to the late Locey and Annie Mae Baker on June 27, 1936. He grew up in a small town in Missouri before finding himself in the Air Force at the age of 19. During his time in the Air Force, he met his wife Nancy in a small town in Maine and they were married on October 31, 1959. Together, they raised three sons and a plethora of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Bill was so full of life. He enjoyed teaching his kids and grandkids to drive, because anyone who knows Bill knows that he loved to drive. After 31 years at Caterpillar, Bill's love for driving and trips continued as he drove for local car dealerships, moving cars from dealership to dealership until he couldn't anymore.

Some of Bill's other passions in life were: climbing mountains, watching NASCAR races, hiking, dancing, rollerblading (even at the age of 62), and spending time with his family. Family is what was the most important to Bill as he lost his father at the age of 3 and was an only child.

Bill is survived by his sons: Keith (Bobbie) Baker, Kevin (Terry) Baker, and Kenneth Baker; grandchildren: Brandi (Kent) Garner, Kristopher (Samantha) Baker, Kyle Baker, Justin Baker (Mycala Fleck-Walker), Jodi Baker (Skyer Bulla), Christina (Evan) Hickerson, Jesse (Andrew) Cloud, Nathan Baker, Erika Baker, Alissa Lawrence, Kameron Conroe (Bayley Steel), Daniel (Joha) Baker, and Kayle (Reichel) Baker; and 18 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son Kevin's first wife, Cindy Baker and one infant great grandchild, Caydnce Schuitema.

Bill requested to not have any services, but instead he wanted a celebration of life. This will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in memory of Bill may be made to TAPS No-Kill Animal Shelter or Peoria County Animal Protective Services.