Jimmy “Jim” Duane Baker, age 74, from Stayton, Oregon, passed away at home Sunday morning, March 10, 2019, after battling prostate cancer. He was born in San Francisco, California on September 21, 1944. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged around 1968.
Jim was preceded in death by his father Brennan Wade Baker, mother Tina Hanson, wife Winnie Baker, and step-granddaughter Breonia Marie Adam. He is survived by his brother Robert from Kansas; son Brennan (Wendy) Baker; daughters Tina (Jeff) Deetz and family, Tonya Cox and family; step-daughter Stephanie (Scott) Johnson; grandchildren Jaymz, Sadie, Sebastian, Lucas, and step-granddaughter Felicia; great-grandson Michael Madsen; and life-long friend Shirley Boyle.
Jim loved helping people whether they wanted it or not, including helping a friend buy a home. He would give you the shirt off his back. Jim was one of the most caring and generous people you would ever meet and he had a huge heart. He always insisted he didn’t like cats, but cats loved him. Jim loved to barter with people, especially with Del at Trask’s, and most of the time he came out ahead. He loved pushing buttons, just ask his family and friends, but they loved him anyway.
Jim spent his last five months living at Elmcroft Assisted Living in Stayton, where he grew very close to residents and staff. He loved it there and wouldn’t change if for the world. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be planned for a later date. Donations to no-kill shelters would be appreciated.
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