Charles "Charlie" Baker

Charles L. "Charlie" Baker, 82, passed away peacefully at his home on April 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Charlie was born on October 17, 1942, in Carlinville, Illinois, to the late Charles O. and Ilah R. Kerrick Baker. On September 1, 1962, he married the love of his life, Judith K. Anthony. Together, they raised four children-Tammy, Terri, Todd, and Tina-in Washington, Illinois, building a life full of love, laughter, and strong family bonds.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Charlie's greatest joy came from time spent with his family. He loved camping, fishing, and relaxing around a bonfire, especially with his children and grandchildren. He proudly coached his kids' baseball and softball teams and cherished every moment he got to be "Grandpa." Christmas was his favorite time of year, and he made it a season of warmth and wonder for everyone he loved. Charlie had a love for nature and enjoyed watching the many species of birds in his yard along with the deer. He also, enjoyed Washington Panthers Friday night football games.

Charlie worked as a machinist for Caterpillar for 35 years before retiring. Not one to rest for long, he then began a second career as the sexton of Glendale Cemetery in Washington, a role he held with honor and pride for 21 years. With help from his son, he maintained the cemetery with great care and respect. As his family lovingly says, "Our father did not only bury the deceased-he also served the living." Now, he joins the many he laid to rest, finding peace in the very place he so faithfully tended.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Judith "Judy" Baker of Washington, IL; his children: Tammy Smallwood of Morton, IL; Terri Baker of Victoria, IL; Todd Baker of Washington, IL; and Tina Kuykendall (Tim) of Washington, IL. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Kayla Kail of West Peoria, IL; Charlie Smallwood (Lauren) of Morton, IL; Lexi Smallwood (Jerry Helm) of Shellsburg, IA; Ryan Maas (Jenna) of Woodridge, IL; Ty Baker of Washington, IL; Ethan Maas of Washington, IL; and Taylor Neese (Brad) of Chicago and by his adored great-grandchildren, Lyle and Lucielle and a host of other family.

Charlie's legacy lives on in the memories he created, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial visitation is scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 4 pm until 6 pm at Mason-White Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow his visitation at 6 pm. Pastor Ben Henderson will officiate. A private burial will be at a later date at Glendale Cemetery in Washington. A celebration of life will be announced at at later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name may be given to St. Jude at www.stjude.org. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington has been entrusted with his service. To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.