Michael Joseph Baker

Michael J. Baker “Bake” of Coal City, IL, age 78, passed away peacefully in his home on February 19, 2026. He was born the son of Alan D. Baker and Antonia Baker (née Gornick) in Joliet, IL on February 20, 1947.

Mike was born, raised, and educated in Joliet, IL. He served his country honorably during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Marine Corps from March of 1964 until March of 1968, earning the National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal. Mike retired from Commonwealth Edison in 1999 after thirty years of service before heading down to sunny Florida in 2001. For Mike, the sun rose and set each day with his beloved wife Geri until her passing in 2021. The two of them were so proud of their family, and Mike was a devoted grandfather. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed athletics throughout his life, serving as a multi-sport coach and mentor as well as spending thirty years playing baseball and softball in many rec leagues throughout the Chicago area. He was a proud member of the Cantigny Post VFW #367 and American Legion #1080. Mike thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his many friends, (especially his weekly breakfasts at the Whistlestop Café) and he maintained a passion for his meticulously manicured lawn until the very end.

He was preceded in death by his parents Alan D. Baker and Antonia (the late Richard) Potts; and his beloved wife of fifty-two years Geraldine “Geri” Baker (née Wendell).

Mike is survived by his daughter Joy (Michael) Ellena; his grandchildren Allen (Alexa), Claire, and Carlie (a special note of gratitude to Carlie and Joy for having given so much of their time and efforts toward providing the highest quality of care in recent years); his brothers David (the late Karen), Timothy (Karen) and Steven (Colleen) Baker; many dear friends; and Jennifer (Brian) Fisher with Breann, Devin, and Emma. Numerous extended family members and loved ones also survive.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24, from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm with a 7:30 Chapel Service that will include an opportunity for a “Sharing of Memories” at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, IL. Mike will rejoin his dear wife Geri when he is interred alongside his fellow military members at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Rd. Elwood, IL on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 11:00 am. Guests may meet at Tezak’s at 9:45 am on Wednesday morning to travel in procession to the cemetery, or meet directly at the cemetery no later than 10:45 am, as services will start promptly at 11:00 am.