Mac L'Dean Baker

On February 12, 2026, Mac L'Dean Baker, 89, passed away in Fresno, California. He had been a resident at the California Veterans Home for the last fifteen months.

Dean was born July 12, 1936, in Barstow, CA to Leland A. and Vanonda P. Livingston Baker. Mr. Baker attended schools in the Bakersfield area, graduating from Bakersfield High School in 1957, following his Army enlistment overseas.

In 1958, he married Emily Barrett and they had two daughters, Emily Suzanne and Stephanie Ellen.

Mr. Baker was always up for adventure and exploring. He had many interests, from Peruvian horses, breeding miniature walking horses, gold excavation, developing bicycle motocross tracks and opening Bicycle Warehouse at 19th and H. He participated in many civic groups and at his church. Because of his service, he received numerous certificates of appreciation over the years. In his later years, he joined the weightlifting team at Yountville Veterans Home and earned national awards for his age and weight class.

His most interesting endeavor was the creation of "Dean Machines". He developed trikes and standers to benefit handicapped children, holding several patents for them as well. These items allowed many children to live well beyond their medical diagnoses, with greater quality of life as well. An interesting part of this story is that these creations came as a result of Dean's prayers for God to make his life meaningful, and at the same time he joined AA and remained a faithful member and sponsor to many over 40+ years.

July 16, 2016, Mr. Baker re-married the love of his life again. They resided in Waterford, California, enjoying their golden years near Suzanne.

Mr. Baker is survived by his daughters Suzanne, married to Mark Bauer and Stephanie, married to Greg Steen. Additional survivors include six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, his sister LaVonna Ihde, brother Wayne Baker, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Emily in 2020, and grandson Matthew Bauer.