Robert Lee “Bob” Baker, age 62, of Independence, Missouri, passed away from pancreatic cancer on Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at the family home. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 28th, from 6-8pm at South Crysler Restoration Branch, 16101 E. Salisbury Rd. in Independence. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am the next day at the church with burial at Mound Grove Cemetery immediately following. Bob was preceded in death by brother, Ollie Bratton and sister, Beverly Baker. He is survived by his wife, Paulette; sons: Bryan (Kristina), Chris, and Josh (Erin); daughter, Tina Alstatt (Jeff); 13 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild on the way; brothers: Roger (Marian) Bratton, Raymond (Cynthia), and Richard; sister, Marge (Ron) Hayden; nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
Bob was a “jack of all trades,” having previously worked at a dental lab, owned a dry cleaners, worked as project manager for Mobile Video surveying, custodian in the Independence Public School District, and as a bail bondsman. While working for the Independence Public School District, Bob was named the Classified Employee of the month February, 2001, and Classified Employee of the Year for 2001 prior to his retirement. Bob was proud to have been custodian at Bryant Elementary when it was the only school to ever receive the Independence Neighborhood Beautification Award. In prior years, Bob served as president of Independence Sertoma, the Soccer Association of Independence, and Independence 76 Fire Club. Bob loved watching his sons play baseball and football, and was soccer coach for both Chris and Josh.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Independence School District Foundation for either the Bob Baker Firefighter Academy Scholarship or the Bob and Paulette Baker John W. Luff School Scholarship. Donations may also be made to the Pancreatic Action Network online at pancan.org