Obituary: Earl William Baker

Earl William Baker was born on March 10, 1933, to George and Mable (Piquette) Baker in Duluth, Minnesota. He was raised in the Gary New Duluth area, and forged a close bond with his six siblings that remained strong throughout their lives. Family was very important to him. Earl served his country with the U.S. Army, being stationed in Korea. Earl was united in marriage to Sharon Lafontaine on July 27, 1957. Together they had five children and raised them in the Cloquet area. Earl was employed with Potlatch for over 28 years. He was an avid supporter of the Ski Club and enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and camping. As long as he was physically able, Earl could always be counted on to lend a hand when help was needed. He will be truly missed. Earl passed away in the presence of family on Friday, December 6, 2024, at Diamond Williow at the age of 91. The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Croix Hospice and Diamond Willow Assisted Living for their exceptional care and much appreciated compassion.

Earl is survived by his children, Joyce (Jerry) Boske of Cloquet, James (Cindy) Baker of Mesa, Arizona, Jeff (Patsy) Baker of Mesa, Arizona, Jack (Kanyapat) Baker of Cloquet, and Jerry (Chin Ok) Baker of Houston, Texas; 13 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Sharon; siblings, Leona (Arnold) Doble, Vernon (Nadine) Baker, Eugene (Bernice) Baker, Floyd (Florence) Baker, Jerome (Donna) Baker, and LeRoy (Ardella) Baker.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 1 p.m. until the 2 p.m. memorial service at Nelson Funeral Care in Cloquet. A luncheon will follow. Inurnment will be at New Calvary Cemetery in Cloquet.