John Nathan Baker

John Nathan Baker passed away peacefully at home on August 10, 2024. He was born on September 9, 1948, in Champaign, Illinois, the son of Kenneth Baker and Bettye Orr. He was born into a military family and moved extensively during his childhood, finally ending up on the Gulf Coast of Texas. He graduated from Stephan F. Austin University with a degree in forestry. He went on to work as an inspector with M.W. Kellogg, in Houston and eventually had his own business as a contract inspector. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Waco, where he was honored to serve as a Deacon. John wore many hats in his life – husband, father, grandfather, brother, son and friend. And he wore each hat well, giving of himself and loving those around him. He always said he practiced the religion of kindness. He loved the outdoors, and he loved animals, especially cats, but he cherished even the least of God’s creatures, lizards, spiders, snails and bees. He hated bullies and always stood up for the underdog. He believed everyone was created as an equal. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Bettye Baker and his brother, Kenny Baker.

He is survived by his wife, Sue, daughter, Megan Winters and husband, Jesse, granddaughters, Ava Gann and Ivy Winters, sisters, Ruth Hay and Andrea Clingaman, and brother, Jeff Baker. 

The world became a smaller place when John, aka Baba, was called home. His passing has left a hole that can’t be filled. I’ll meet you at Rainbow Bridge when my time comes. Wait for me there.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Fuzzy Friends or First Presbyterian Church, Waco.