It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father (grandfather and great grandfather), Kenneth Ray Baker, 91, who left us on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
Kenneth was born on April 16, 1933 to Roy D. Baker and Rutilla Tate Baker in the small town of Cushman, Arkansas.
Kenneth’s early years were shared with his siblings, Howard, J.C, Rentha, Katheryn, Edna Mae, and Charlene. They were a family who farmed together in rural Arkansas. Kenneth continued to develop his skills by growing a flourishing garden each year.
On June 12, 1954, Kenneth married Nora Moore from Fairmount, Indiana. Kenneth and Nora had three kids, Richard Allen Baker (Mona), Johnny Baker (Charlotte) and Mary Downen (Charles “Mike”). Together, they raised their family in Batesville, Arkansas eventually relocating and settling in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Following the passing of his wife, Nora, Kenneth married Joan Mattzela from Michigan on December 22, 1989 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Kenneth spent a significant part of his professional career at the University of Medical Sciences (UAMS) where he worked as a power plant engineer for more than 30 years. He was proud of his work and often seen as the expert in his field.
Kenneth’s commitment to his family extended beyond providing: he was actively involved in their lives, whether working on vehicles with his daughter Mary or around the house with his grandson Ray. Kenneth was always looking at ways to teach his family.
Kenneth was an avid fan of the St. Louis, Cardinals and could be found watching games at Bush Stadium each year with his kids and grandkids. In addition, Kenneth could be found at his great grandson, Peyton Baker’s football games on Friday nights. These games were something he looked forward to all year.
Kenneth was predeceased by his parents, his siblings, his wife Nora Moore Baker, his son Allan Baker and his son-in-law Charles “Mike” Downen. He is survived by his wife, Joan Mattzela Baker, his son Johnny Ray Baker (Charlotte), and his daughter Mary Downen. He was a proud Papa to his 5 grandkids and 7 great grand kids.
