Vernon John Baker

Vernon John Baker, 93, passed away on Tuesday, July 20, 2021. Before moving  to North Carolina, he was residing in Plainfield, IL. Vernon was born on June 24, 1928 in Lena, IL to the late Dora S. Busjahn Baker and Edward Charles Baker.

Vernon was preceded in death by his wife Jean Ratkovich Baker of Plainfield; his son Bradley Jay Baker of DeKalb; and his two brothers, Walter Baker of Lena and Wilbur Baker of Orangeville.

Surviving are two his sons, Bruce Baker of Houston, TX and Brian Baker of Fayetteville, NC; his daughter Vicki Cooper of Fayetteville, NC; his sister Marian Michael of Sycamore, IL; and his two grandsons, Chad Cooper of Buford, GA and Bradley Cooper of Kitty Hawk, NC.

Vernon was the youngest and first in his family to graduate from Lena Community High School in 1946. He became the owner of a variety store in Shannon, IL and later added a bowling alley next door. In the 60s he moved to DeKalb, IL and worked in the Northern Illinois University Student Bowling Center. He also owned the first DIY car washes in DeKalb. In the late 70s he moved to Makanda, IL and eventually worked for the Illinois Central Railroad. After retirement he moved to Mt. Home, AK where he met his wife Jean. Vernon was also a lifetime member of the Elks.

No services are scheduled at this time.

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