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Mary Baker Obituary
Mary's life centered around her family. She never missed a grandchild's event and was so devoted to getting everyone where they needed to be that she proudly earned the nickname "Grandma's Taxi." Whether it was sports, school activities, or special moments, Mary was always there.
She especially loved traveling and camping with her partner, John, particularly their adventures along Route 66. Mary was passionate about helping others and was a dedicated volunteer with Project Linus, where she combined her love of crocheting with her desire to help children in need by creating handmade blankets.
Mary adored Christmas and had an extensive collection of Santa figurines. She also enjoyed her fair share of gambling and was an enthusiastic sports fan, especially cheering on The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cincinnati Bengals.
Mary is survived by her daughters Kelli (Rob) Gardner, Karri (Todd) Gierke, and Kammi (Shane) Bollen; her partner John Weidner; grandchildren Ashley (Mack Smith) Bollen, Seth (Maddie) Gierke, Rilee Gierke, and Michael Bollen; great-grandson Jettson Smith, with another great-grandson on the way; sisters Bonnie Tomsu and Jackie (Ken) Bernauer; nephews Travis (Carolyn) Tomsu and John Bernauer; great-nephews Charlie and Patrick; and great-niece Sabrina.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Baker; her parents, Jack (Betty) Cameron and Lola (Carl) Phillips; her in-laws, Vernon (Eleanor) Baker; and her brother-in-law, Ken Bernauer.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home, 650 W. Waterloo St., Canal Winchester, OH 43110. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., with burial to take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 5600 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213. The family invites everyone to wear respectful Christmas clothing in honor of Mary's love for the season.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Project Linus in Mary's memory.
Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home, Canal Winchester, has been entrusted with helping the family during this difficult time.
Online condolences may be shared at www.spencefuneralhome.com.
650 West Waterloo Street, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
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