Jane Baker

Jane Garner Baker of St. Louis, MI passed away Monday, August 22, 2016 at Masonic Pathways in Alma, MI.

Jane was born the only child of Harry and Margaret Danforth in Grand Rapids, MI. She was raised in Durand and upon graduation enrolled at Michigan State College earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1949.

The day after graduation she married John William Baker and moved to Gratiot County where John began his career with the Cooperative Extension service as 4-H agent and Jane was employed by Alma schools as an elementary teacher for 10 years.

Jane obtained her Master of Arts degree in early childhood education from Michigan State University in 1956 and after the birth of her boys; Jeff and Jim, she worked as a preschool teacher for several years.  She enjoyed teaching and became a substitute teacher for area schools for many years.

The Baker's were avid travelers and history buffs. During their 66 years Jane and John traveled the 50 states and spent winters in Florida after their retirement.

Jane participated in a variety of community organizations including; Alma Women's Club, Gratiot Hospital Auxiliary, PEO, and St. Louis United Methodist Women. She was a life member of Eastern Star and Zeta Alpha Sorority, which she joined as a college student.

Jane and John were devoted Spartan fans and 50 year football season ticket holders at MSU. They were also frequent spectators at St. Louis athletic events cheering on their 5 grandchildren. Jane was a very dedicated grandmother and her grandchildren brought her much joy.

Surviving is son Jeff (Sue Hull) of St. Louis and their children; John (Tonya and daughter McKenzie) of St. Louis; Cody (Lindsay and daughters Sydney and Hadley) of Owosso; and Nora (Nick) of Burr Oak, MI.

John Baker, husband, and son Jim preceded her in death. Jim's family survives her including wife Lori Baker of East Lansing and children Jami Baker lansing and Dustin Baker, Washington D.C.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Michigan 4-H Foundation c/o MSU Extension, 219 North State Street, Alma, MI 48801.

Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church, St. Louis, MI on Thursday, August 25, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. Burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery, Alma, MI.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 24, 2016 from 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, MI.

Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.