RAYMOND GEORGE BAKER: 1935 2013 Ray Baker passed away peacefully at Prairie Valley Lodge in Summerland, surrounded by his family, on April 11, 2013 at the age of 78. Ray is survived by Orma, his wife of 53 years, children, Lisa (Mark Figge), Paula (Doug Davies) and Bruce (Natasha Leighl), grandchildren, Derek, Miranda and Aidan, siblings, Arnold, Doug, Keith, and Lois, nieces, nephews and 'dozens of cousins'. Born at home near Neepawa, Manitoba on March 15, 1935 to Bert and Mabel Baker, Ray spent his childhood doing all the things a farm boy loves. He barbered in Winnipeg for many years until he and Orma bought a farm near Polonia, Manitoba where he established a fine herd of cattle and spent 20 years producing grain and canola. Ray loved to fix things, loved his horses and cattle, enjoyed dancing, western music, travelling, a good Louis L'Amour book, bicycling, camping, storytelling, jalapeno garlic dill pickles, pizza, and ice cream. His patience was boundless--soft spoken and calm, he often cautioned Orma, "Don't get excited." Following retirement, Ray and Orma moved first to Neepawa, then to Penticton where he learned his way around a computer, ran a condo strata, and operated sound systems for Penticton United Church and the TuneAgers. Confronted with a diagnosis of Lewy Body, Ray faced the disease that slowly destroyed his mind and body with fortitude, patience and dignity. He will be sadly missed. Special thanks to the staff and owners of Prairie Valley Lodge in Summerland who offered such caring support during Ray's last weeks. A celebration of life will be held at Penticton United Church, 696 Main Street, Penticton on April 16 at 1 pm. No flowers please. Donations may be made to Penticton United Church or the charity of your choice. Arrangements in care of Everden Rust Funeral Services. Condolences may be shared by visiting www.everdenrust.com
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