William Baker

William Baker
LITTLE LAKE, MI – William J. “Bill” Baker, age 97, of Little Lake, passed away Friday, January 10, 2025, in the loving care of his family and UP Home Health and Hospice.
Born on September 18, 1927 in Stambaugh, MI, the son of Frank and Frances (Belland) Baker, Bill was raised in Stambaugh and graduated from Stambaugh High School, Class of 1946. He will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
After high school, Bill honorably served his country by joining the U.S. Army, embarking on a distinguished 21-year military career. As an explosive demolitionist, he served in Germany and Japan and played a role in setting up explosives for the movie “The Longest Day” alongside Sgt. Birmingham in France. Bill retired from the military in August 1968 as a respected veteran.
On June 23, 1956, Bill married the love of his life, Nancy Matijevich, and together they built a beautiful life centered around family, faith, and community. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose greatest joy came from spending time with his loved ones. His motto, “We have everything we need and a little of what we want,” exemplified his gratitude and contentment in life.
Bill enjoyed woodworking, shooting firearms, and embracing every moment spent with family. A devout member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Gwinn, he was also active in the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion of Little Lake, and was a lifetime charter member of the National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association. Additionally, he was a life member of the Society of the First Infantry Division.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Baker; his sons, Michael (Lorrie) Baker of Negaunee, MI, Thomas (Patti) Baker of Carlshend, MI, Robert (Eve) Baker of Mesa, AZ, Paul (Suzanne) Baker of Tallahassee, FL, and Mark (Angela) Baker of Sabinal, TX; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; his sister, Jeanne Berube; and several nieces and nephews.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, 4 sisters, and 4 brothers. Visitation, funeral services and military honors for Bill will take place at a date to be determined this summer at St. Anthony Catholic Church of Gwinn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church of Gwinn, 280 North Boulder Street, Gwinn, MI 49841.
Canale Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is serving the family.Condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com