Wilmer Eugene Baker

Wilmer Eugene Baker, Sr., age 77, of Niles died Sunday, June 23, at Lakeland Medical Center in Niles. He was born May 22, 1936, in Buchanan to the late Wilmer E. and Dorothea (Eisele) Baker. On June 18, 1955, in Niles, he married Saundra Borst who survives; along with two daughters, Theresa Thomas and Tami (Mike) Seymour, both of Niles; two sons, Wilmer Eugene (Sandy) Baker, Jr. of Buchanan and Jeff Baker of Nappanee, Indiana; a sister, Kathy Curtis of Niles; and a brother Glen (Karen) Baker of Buchanan. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Preceding him in death were a great grandchild, Tayler Baker, a son-in-law, Dwight Thomas, and a brother-in-law, Dean Curtis. Eugene grew up in Bertrand Township where he farmed, as well as served on the Township Board and Fire Department. He also served on the Niles Township Fire Department. He enjoyed bowling and the company of his dog, Angel. He took great pride in being accused of overseeing Portage Prairie where his family had been early settlers.Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 27th, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Swem Chapel in Buchanan. A service celebrating his life will be held Friday, June 28th, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 9 South 4th St., Niles, Michigan with Reverend Pat Eichenlaub officiating. Memorial Contributions may be made to The Berrien County Youth Fair, Rabbit Barns, 9122 Old US 31, Berrien Springs, MI 49103. To sign his guest book or leave a condolence message please visit our web site www.swemchapel.com.