Nina J. Baker
November 3, 1934 – December 4, 2021
In accordance with her wish cremation will take place and she will be laid to rest privately. Memorial contributions may be made to Centrica Care Navigators, c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 87, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 4, 2021, with family at her side. She was born in Kalamazoo on November 3, 1934, the daughter of the late Howard and Theo (Lytle) Steele. Nina had a kind smile, gentle nature and giving heart. She had a strong faith and was an involved member of First United Methodist Church where she enjoyed making desserts for friends and those in need. She worked hard to provide a happy home where all were welcome. She was a gifted knitter, and an accomplished cook. She knew how to have fun and enjoyed going on roller coasters and music. Nina was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister who will be missed by all those she loved and cared for. On October 2, 1954, she married Robert E. Baker who preceded her in passing on March 29, 2017. She was also preceded in passing by her in-laws; a great-grandson, Jacob Baker and two siblings. Nina is survived by three children, Phyllis (Rob) DeWaters, Peggy (Lon) Sparks, Phil Baker; eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren; two brothers; many nieces, nephews and extended family. Nina’s family wish to thank the Stanford Lodge Assisted Living for their care and for knowing that families are essential and important for a loved one’s well-being. They also wish to thank the hospice staff particularly; Jamie, Melissa, Carolyn, Amy, Heather, Tommy and Dr. Raphelson, for their compassion and support during Nina’s final days.
Mom, you were a great person whom I loved. I enjoyed our many years together sharing breakfast each day. I’m sorry that I couldn’t take you home as you asked me every time we were together. My wife, Diane and I both loved you.
What memories I have sharing time with Nina in my early years. Getting off the bus from Cooper School for our 4H knitting classes – for years. She would have a treat and we would watch a soap while knitting mittens and sweaters. Phil would bring the most beautifully decorated cookies to class for each holiday and to think she spent that much time just for us kids is inspiring. She was a memorable person in our township and will be missed.
So sorry to hear of your moms passing. I always remember how happy she was whenever we met. I’m sure she was a great mom.
To the Families of Nina Steele Baker: Our many thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this time. Nina is at peace now with Bob and God by her side. We go back many years living in Cooper. The Steele kids, Charlotte Heuser Huston and myself had horses and we rode alot together. In the summer we would all pile in the back of a truck and head to Pine Lake. Many years in 4-H together. Great childhood!! Then after College I worked with Nina in Kalamazoo. Bob and Nina would give me a ride to work. We made many good memories together and friendship!!
I have such fond memories of Nina as a 4-H leader teaching me to knit way back in the late 60’s. I was never able to duplicate the way she held the “feeding” yarn and knitted at lightening speed, though I think she would be proud to know she was my inspiration to continue on with one of her passions. I still knit today and think of her each time I pick up some needles and yarn. She was a kind soul whose legacy continues in all the lives she touched, most certainly her family and Cooper neighbors. I am sure she is knitting up a storm in heaven making sure there are no cold hands and warm hearts with her creations. God bless her family with the many memories they hold of her. Rest in peace, Mrs. Baker.