Jack L. Baker Sr. formerly of Salina, KS passed away Thursday, January 11th, 2018 in Wichita, KS. He was born September 12, 1939 in Salina, KS at the former Asbury Hospital. Jack attended Hawthorne Elementary School, Roosevelt-Lincoln Jr. High and graduate in 1957 from Salina High School.
His passions were youth and sports, so for over 30 years he ran The Salvation Army Community Center on north Santa Fe in Salina. In 2015, Jack and his wife, Jackie, were recognized for their combined service of 60 years to the youth of the north end of Salina and was presented the prestigious “Others” award by The Salvation Army. Jack was mentor and coach to many at-risk youth and was inclusive with all. He was an outstanding leader in youth sportsmanship and was most at home on the baseball diamond, basketball court or football field. Some of his players went on to both semi-pro and professional sports. Jack also worked for the City of Salina Water Department and retired from the USD 305 School District.
Jack is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jackie Baker, Benton, KS; and seven children Beverly (Douglas) Peterson, Rockford, IL, Michael Baker, OH; Jay (Carol) Baker, Marquette, KS; Scott (Edie) Baker, Deepwater, MO; Richard Baker, Salina, KS; Francine Woerner, Parrish, FL; and Deena Baker, Benton, KS. He is survived by eight grandchildren, 11great-grandchildren and his brothers Gary Fletcher and Sam Baxter. He is preceded in death by his mother Nellie Fletcher; sister, Lynn (Baxter) Steenson; sister Marilyn Bradford; and his parents in spirit, Uncle Mike and Aunt Ethel Jones.
Jack was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, cousin, friend and to so many others simply…Coach Baker.
In lieu of flowers, please send cards to Jackie Baker, PO BOX 484, Benton, KS 67017.
A memorial service is being planned for the near future at The Salvation Army, 1137 N. Santa Fe, Salina KS.
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