Ronald Eugene Baker, known as Ron by all who knew and loved him, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the age of 80.
Ron was born on July 26, 1944, in San Jose, California, to John Fredrick Baker and Kathleen Dolores Huffmon.
On December 18, 1964, Ron married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Baker, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage of nearly 60 years. Together, they built a strong and loving family, including their four children: Ronald Baker Jr. (fiancée Jill Gagner), John and Rebekah Baker, Robert and Anne Baker, Kathleen and Ryan Murdock.
Ron was also a devoted grandfather to 42 grandchildren and a proud great-grandfather to 31 great-grandchildren.
Ron joined the U.S. Air Force in April 1964 and honorably served his country as a jet engine mechanic until his discharge in April 1970. His dedication to service extended beyond his military career as he lived his life as an active and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Over the years, he served in numerous church callings and, alongside his wife Pat, fulfilled a full-time mission in the Arizona Scottsdale Mission, where they lovingly served the communities of Eagar and Springerville, Arizona.
Ron had an outgoing personality and a boundless love for people. He considered everyone a friend and lived a life filled with service and compassion for those around him. His greatest joy was his family, whom he cherished above all else.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents, John Fredrick Baker and Kathleen Dolores Huffmon, and his grandson, Caden John Baker. He leaves behind his sister, Kindra Lea Ponzio, and her husband Dave Rocha, his beloved wife Pat, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless friends whose lives he touched deeply.
He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who will be missed dearly.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1266 S 32nd St, Mesa, AZ 85204. Ron will be laid to rest with military honors at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024.
For those unable to attend the service, you can view the service here.
Ron’s legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Wonderful man that will be greatly missed! Prayers from the Holst Family!
A great friend I will miss forever. I will always cherish the time you baptized me and good counsel. You are with Heavenly Father now.
Our condolences are with you and your family. We were very fond of Ron and you. You have our prayers for you and your family.
My memories of my uncle is all the times he helped me be able to go to church functions when I was a teen and all of the times I was in the halls at church not going in to classes. And how his big bear hugs felt each time I needed one I will miss my uncle but now he is with our father in heaven waiting for all of us to be up there with him.
So saddened to hear this! Ron was a bright light in this world! I loved working with him at Tiebreaker Elementary! Prayers for you Pat and your family!
Good friend for 20 years you will be missed
Our most heart felt condolences to the Baker family. Ron sr was such a happy guy and always willing to serve those around him. Such a great example of Christlike love.
Patricia, our prayers and loving hearts are with you and your family as you transverse this time of loss. We know your faith carries all of you even through this time of loss and change. Love to you all from the Nightingales.
We lived across the street from Ron and Pat when I was growing up in San Jose.. My parents were friends and Ron and Pat were like a second Mom & Dad.at that time. Ron was a great example of a man of God. I will be forever grateful for his influence in my life at such a young age. May God bring peace and comfort to the Baker Family .
Thankful for getting to know the Bakers and working with them in many callings including in the Boise Temple. Pat, since John passed away over 2 years ago I can assure you that your temple covenants will help you a great deal in feeling peace and comfort. Thanks for being such dear friends for many years.