Jack L. Baker

Jack L. Baker, 87, of Du Quoin, went to be with those before him at 2:40 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2015 at the Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin.

Jack was a retired coal miner from Consolidate Coal Company at Cutler, Ill. He spent his retired years enjoying his family, wood working, fishing and yard work.

Jack was quite a storyteller and left vivid memories for us all. He overcame diversities that strengthened him and made him the husband, papa and friend that he was. Jack was of the Christian faith. He was a member of the UMW of A.

He was born Oct. 3, 1927 at Harrisburg, Ill., the son of Louis C. and Leona (Rice) Baker.

He married Patricia Lennington on March 28, 1953 in Piggot, Ark., sharing near 62 years of life together and she survives.

He is survived by his wife of Du Quoin, son - Robert D. Baker and wife Dawn of Medaryville, Ind., daughter - Jean A. Foster and husband Steven of Sesser, six grandchildren - Jennifer Anderson and husband Derek of Murphysboro, Joseph Baker and wife Renee of Montere, Ind., Patrick Baker and wife Brittany of Francesville, Ind., Laura Fritz and husband Caleb of Brookston, Ind., Dustin Foster and wife Janna of Mount Vernon and Andrew Foster and fiancee Beth Schnurbusch of Chicago, six great-grandchildren - Natalie Followell, Chloe Baker, Allison Followell, Blake Baker, Addyson Baker and Calvin Foster and sister - Shirley Jean Baker of Du Quoin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son - Michael Gene Baker and brother - James Carl Baker.

Graveside services were held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 2, 2015 at the Mueller Hill Cemetery at Pinckneyville with Sam Macaluso officiating.

Burial was at the Mueller Hill Cemetery in Pinckneyville.

Friends may make memorials to the family.

Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.