September 21, 1935 – November 3, 2026
James E. Baker, 91, passed away on November 3, 2026, in Mitchell.
He was born on September 21, 1935, to Charles K. and Ilene (Harvey) Baker. He was in failing health, mostly during just a few days before his death.
Jim is survived by one son, Edward Wayne Baker of Arizona, and one daughter, Michele Baker Green of Bedford, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, one sister, Judy Mason of Bedford, and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his parents, one son, Kevin Baker, and one daughter, Heidi Baker Minson, three brothers, Charles Baker, Jr., Billy Don Baker, and Fred Baker, two sisters, Katie Lantz and Carolyn Wellman.
Jim was a self-employed trucker for many years, hauling smaller pieces of Indiana Limestone from local companies to various job sites throughout the eastern half of the United States. He was an outstanding basketball player in high school and graduated from Heltonville High School in 1954. His 6’5” height enabled him to be one of the top high school point scorers of his time, and that was before the three-point rules were even thought of.
Jim was a very likeable guy and had many, many friends, a lot of whom he had breakfast with at local restaurants during his retirement years. He especially loved watching Damon Bailey play basketball as well as other players in high school, college, and professional players.
Visitation will be at Cresthaven Funeral Home on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Pastor Jerry Reynolds will officiate the 3:00 p.m. service. Entombment will follow in Cresthaven Memory Gardens.
Condolences may be made at www.cresthavenfh.com.
