Bernard L. Baker's Obituary
Bernard L. Baker, age 85, of Pinckneyville, IL, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025 at 10:13 a.m., he died peacefully in his home.
Bernard was born on November 9, 1939 in Astoria, IL, a son to Virgil Oliver and Pauline (Moss) Baker. On December 21, 1962, he married Phyllis June Morse of Maquon, IL and had four children. Bernard later remarried Frances C. Filkins of Carbondale, IL on May 12, 1984 and she preceded him in death on July 27, 2015. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, worked as a coal miner for Truax Traur at the Norris Mine for six years, Consol #4 Jamestown for 22 years, and as a truck driver for Ryterski Trucking for 20 years. Bernard was a 50 year member of the Mitchell Lodge 85 AF & AM, became a Master Mason within the Shriners and a member of the Moose Lodge since 1961. He was of the Protestant faith. Bernard enjoyed visiting with friends and family. Traveling as an avid camper and proud to call himself a winter Texan.
Survivors include his children, Eric (Francie) Baker of Pinckneyville, IL, Phillip (Yvette) Baker of Pinckneyville, IL, Janet Szczepanski of Pinckneyville, IL, Vicki McMaster of DuQuoin, IL; one step-daughter, Ginger (Adali) Chapman of Pinckneyville, IL; two sisters, Sharon Elliott of Canton, IL and Jean Pavley of Canton, IL; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Frances; one brother, David Baker; and one sister in infancy.
A memorial service will be at a later date and time.
Memorial donations may be made to Mooseheart Charities, 155 S. International Dr., Mooseheart, IL 60539.
Pyatt Funeral Home, Pinckneyville, IL has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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