Walter "Herb" Baker Iii

Walter "Herb" Baker III, 75, of Eldorado, IL, died December 24, 2021, at Harrisburg Medical Center in Harrisburg, IL. He was born April 7, 1946, in Junction City, KS, the son of Walter Baker, Jr. & Linnea "DeeDee" (Olson) Baker, both of whom preceded him in death. He married Martha Ann "Marty" Shute on August 24, 1968, and she preceded him in death on April 11, 2015. He was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Patty Snider. He is survived by his two children, John & Dawn Baker (Riverton, IL) and Jennifer Baker (Harrisburg, IL); by his grandchildren, Brayden Robson, Nevaeh Robson, Grant Baker, Izaiah Baker, Harmony Baker, and Faith Baker; and by his two nephews, Jason Snider and Jeremy & Tiffany Snider. Herb grew up in Oak Park, IL, where he would attend school, graduating from Oak Park and River Forest High School in 1964. He would further his education at Eastern Illinois University, where he earned a bachelor's degree before attending McCormick Theological Seminary. Upon becoming an ordained Presbyterian minister, he was led to pastor in Goodland, IN and Springfield, IL before moving to Earlville, IL, and finally, Eldorado, IL, his last post before retiring in 2011. Though he took his work seriously, those closest to him could speak to his goofy quirks! He lived out of an abundance of joy, and it showed, day-in and day-out. In addition to his love of Chicago Cubs baseball, he also found great enjoyment in food. In fact, the only thing more voracious than his appetite was his insatiable love of reading! Not a small part of his 75 years was spent immersed in a book. While it is true that Herb was a well-read man, it is so much more important to note that he was well-loved. He epitomized the love we find displayed in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13 and exuded its attributes: he was patient and kind, not one to be self-seeking nor boastful. This type of life can be attributed to his walk with Jesus. We are so thankful that the faith he clung to throughout his life has finally been made sight and that he will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. A private graveside service will be held at the Hutsonville Cemetery and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.