Kenneth William Baker

Kenneth William Baker, age 91, passed away peacefully in his sleep October 3, 2022. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, older brother and a friend to many. He will be sorely missed.

Kenneth was born to William Earl and Melba Webb Baker on July 22, 1931 in St. George, Utah. He was the oldest of 11 children. Through his childhood on a farm and at the hands of good parents, he learned the value of hard work, the significance of learning and most importantly, how to be an honorable man. It was a great blessing to be raised in a family of musical talent and ability. He had a beautiful voice and developed a passion for playing the clarinet.

Kenneth served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to the California, Sacramento mission and remained true to his faith throughout his life. He married his lifelong sweetheart, Annie Laurie McGregor on June 12, 1951 in the St. George LDS Temple. Soon after their marriage they were stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii where Ken played in the Army band. They were the proud parents of three children; Bobbi, Laurie and Butch. He was a wonderful Father who, together with his wife, provided a loving home that fostered respect, learning, responsibility and laughter.

He graduated from the University of Utah and received advanced degrees from Brigham Young University. He taught school for eight years and then served as the UEA President in 1970 and 1971. After that he became the Executive Director of the UEA, and then went into administration for the Jordan School District. He was a lifelong teacher, not only as a profession, but in everything he did. His greatest teachings were done by example.

Ken was a man of steadfast integrity, humility and great patience. He loved his family, especially his wife of nearly 70 years. He was always supportive of all our endeavors. He served and took care of others consistently and quietly. He made friends wherever he went and always had kind words for everyone.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Annie Laurie McGregor and his three children, Barbara (Bobbi) St. Jeor, Laurie Balls Jensen (Jay), and Brent (Butch) Baker (Ginger). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Darrell (Jackie) and Steven (Carol) and his sisters, Mary Anne Snow (Boyd) and Gai Herbert (Scott).

Preceding Kenneth in death are his parents; five brothers, Alma, Lloyd, Lynn, Norman, Merlin and a sister, Sheila Krogue; two sons in law, Eldon C. St. Jeor, and David McKay Balls; one great grandson, Jacob Hatch.

We offer our sincere gratitude for the compassionate and loving care from those at Intermountain Hospice and Spring Gardens Assisted Living with special thanks to Megan. Thank you for your kind heart.

A viewing will be held in his honor on Thursday, October 6th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Lake Creek Farms Ward, 6250 E 1200 South in Heber City Utah. A funeral will be held Friday, October 7th at the same location at 12:00 noon with visitation from 10:30 to 11:30 AM. To live stream the funeral service, please visit: https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/79434/hash:9530F759558D4066 .

Interment will be at Tonaquint Cemetary in St. George, UT Saturday, October 8th at 11:00 AM.