William Heber Bakes (Bill), born July 25, 1922 in Pocatello, ID, died October 26, 2019 in Gilbert AZ at age 97. He was raised in Boise, the son of Warren H. Bakes and Oral Rich. He graduated Boise High School and attended college. When WWII began, Bill enlisted and served in Patton’s Army as a forward observer and interpreter. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge, Ardennes, and was among the troops that liberated Dachau.
Bill earned his law degree from University of Idaho then married the former Evelyn Jewel Adamson in 1950. They have five children. He practiced law in Idaho then later moved to California, finally settling in Fair Oaks. After retiring he and Jewel traveled extensively. Bill had an engaging sense of humor and was always the life of the party. He was a member of the LDS church.
Bill is survived by his wife Jewel, daughter-in-law Madeline, daughter Katherine Payne (Karl), sons Stephen Bakes (Margaret), Kenneth Bakes, Thomas Bakes (Bonnie), 16 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, a sister, Bernice Felt, and brothers Lowell and Robert Bakes. Bill was preceded in death by his son W. Howard, daughter-in-law Diane, brothers Rich, Donald, and sister Betty-Jo O’Rouark.
Dear Family Bakes,
I wonder if you will ever receive this message, taken in consideration the time that has passed. However, I think that it worths to tell you that I have felt very much sorry for your husband, father and grandfather lost.
I have never forgotten him and I was always relief when I googled his name and I saw he was still with you. Unfortunately, few months ago a read the bad news.
Your father played a key role in my life, I owe him who I am now and I have never forgotten him and will not do in the future.
I send you all my late but very deeply condolences.
Jesus