Robert "Bob" Paul Baker

  Robert Paul "Bob" Baker Jr, son of Robert Paul and Geraldine Swedrek Baker, was born October 20, 1962, in New Brunswick, New Jersey and departed this life October 12, 2024, in St Louis, Missouri, at the age of sixty-one years.

  Bob made a profession of faith in Christ when he was young and at the time of his passing was of the Christian faith. Bob always put his trust in God. 

  Bob was raised near Lynchburg, Missouri on a small farm and enjoyed a childhood of country living and riding ponies all day with friends. He always said, "I had the best childhood anyone could ask for". He attended Plato High School in Plato, Missouri and graduated in 1981. During high school he played basketball and was the third baseman for his baseball team. He loved playing sports and was a member of the Letterman's Club. He was also involved in Student Council, Building Trades, and was voted Most Humorous in his senior class. 

  On August 14, 1982, Bob was united in marriage to Debra Ann Crocker. Together they shared 42 years of love, work, travel, and amazing adventures.

  Bob worked hard to provide for his family over the years. He was employed with The Durham Company in Lebanon, Missouri for several years. He took pride in his work in the Quality Control department. In 1998 he joined the Springfield Missouri Police Department where he served for 21 years, until his retirement in 2019. Bob was proud to serve his city and he treated everyone with respect. He once said "I always tried to treat people well". He earned much deserved respect from his co-workers and employers for his strong work ethic.

  After retirement, Bob dedicated his life to his family, He and Debbie loved every moment with their grand babies. Bob took them on wagon rides every time they visited, but the slide and ball pit were their favorite things to do at Grandpa's house. He taught Clementine how to ride her bike and taught Castle how to throw a ball. They played basketball often. Bob loved to work outside, always maintaining a nice yard. He gladly planted many trees and flowers for Debbie. He liked to cook and bake chocolate chip cookies for others. Bob enjoyed remodeling projects and building and creating things. 

  In his free time, Bob enjoyed deer hunting and was a successful deer hunter. He had several deer in the Big Bucks Club. He found peace in the woods watching wildlife and nature. He and Debbie also enjoyed playing cards and going to dinner with friends. Nothing compared to the time spent and laughter shared with family and friends. He loved big.

  Bob is survived by his wife Debbie; daughter, Alex Baker of Ozark, Missouri; grandchildren, Clementine Carter Rogers and Castle Alexander Rogers; siblings, Paul Baker of Lebanon, Missouri and Dawn Gibson of Nixa, Missouri; an aunt, Diane Bach of Jacksonville, Florida; Nieces, Jenny and Jaime Baker and Cami McBride all of Lebanon, Missouri; In-laws, Steven Crocker and Trudy Sherman of Roby, Missouri; Special friends, who he considered family, Gene and Judy Amos, Shannon Myers Chung, and Sean Myers; and many other dear family members and friends.

  Those preceding him in death include his parents, grandparents, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

  Bob was deeply loved by all who knew him. His was a life well lived and so very blessed. He was always positive and found the bright light in any and all circumstances. Bob will be greatly missed.

  A visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Monday, October 21, 2024, at Aldersgate Church, Nixa. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am in the church under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, with Pastor Dennis Miller officiating.

  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Bunker Hill Retreat: 6027 Bunker Hill Road, Mountain View, MO 65548
417-934-2333 | bhill@bunkerhillretreat.com. 

  Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa.