Clarence Jay Baker

Clarence “Clancy””Jay Baker, 76, was born April 6, 1934, to Ame and Grace Baker in Kalamazoo, MI. He passed away at home surrounded by family and Heartland Hospice nurses on March 2, 2011.

Clancy was raised in Kalamazoo, MI, were he attended 4th Dutch Reform Christian Church and Kalamazoo Central High School graduating in 1952. After graduation, he worked in the trucking industry, ultimately becoming an independent owner/operator.

In March 1977 while dining at a favorite restaurant, Clancy met the love of his life, Kathy, when she walked in on crutches with a broken leg and two crying toddlers in tow. Kathy later became employed at this restaurant where they became friends and fell in love. On May 11, 1978, they were united in marriage. This union of family became complete on Feb. 25, 1983, with Clarence’s adoption of Mike and Kyle.

Life in Missouri began in 1984 when the family relocated to El Dorado Springs. Clarence went to work at Cecomo Manufacturing, driving a semi-truck. After heart surgery in 1989, he returned to work driving again until a logging accident forced his retirement. He began part-time work as a driver delivering pallets for 3-M Corporation.

In 1997 he went to work as a Mental Health Worker for Heartland Hospital in Nevada. Those 12 years at Heartland were the happiest of times for him. He truly enjoyed his work with the kids, many of whom still call him’“Grandpa.” He developed friendships that where very important to him with his co-workers.

Everyone who knew him, knows the love he had for his dogs, they were always on his lap when he was home.

Clarence was known by many different names - Clancy, Pops, Dutch, Boss or the Old Fart. He was a joker, lovingly calling his wife, Kathy, the “Warden” for all their 33 years of marriage. He said this was because she cares for all the creatures that walked through the door, himself the Dutchman, kids, dogs and anyone who needed help.

Clarence was known for his laughter and friendly manner. No matter where he lived, the local coffee shop quickly knew his name.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ame and Grace; sister, Annie Borgais; daughter, Anita Baker-Wright, her husband, Gary Wright; nephews, Michael Baker and Chris Borgais; sister-in-law, Barbara Baker; and brother-in-law, Donald Turner.

Clarence is survived by his wife, Kathy - of the home; sons Michael William Baker and Kyle Robert Baker - Nevada, Clarence Ted Baker and Carl Jay Baker - both from the state of Michigan; brother, Robert Baker - Midland, MI; mother-in-law, Anita Loose – Stockton; brothers-in-law, Bill Page - Omaha, NE, and Mike Hubbard - Nevada; sister-in-law - Georgiana Turner, Bolivar; many nieces, nephews, granddaughters and loved friends.

Services were held Saturday, March 5, at Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, with Steve Knoll officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.