Elaine A. Baker

Elaine A. Baker, age 93, of DeSoto, passed away on Friday, June 14, 2024. She was born to the late Walter and Agnes (Swanson) Anderson on June 27, 1930, in Chicago. Raised in Chicago, Elaine graduated from Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL with a degree in education. While working as a kindergarten teacher for the Barrington School District, she earned her master’s degree in education. Elaine taught Kindergarten for 38 years at Sunny Hill School in Carpentersville and at Countryside School in Barrington, IL.

In March of 1950, Elaine married William A. Baker. They began raising their seven children in Carpentersville before moving to Dundee in 1970, where they remained until retiring to their farm in DeSoto, WI. While in Carpentersville and Dundee, Elaine was a member of St. Stephens Lutheran Church. After settling in DeSoto, she joined the congregation of DeSoto Lutheran Church where she was an active member and made many friends. Elaine was busy in retirement tending to her tree farm, volunteering with several community organizations, quilting and helping neighbors, who in turn helped her when needed. She had a village around her.

Elaine is survived by her children: Sue Ann (David) Dumke of Brule, WI, Timothy (Donna) of Carpentersville, IL, Bonnie (Jeff) Frye of Amelia, OH, Daniel (Colleen) of Genoa, IL, and Rickard of Littleton, CO; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-children.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William; her sons, Billy and Kenneth; grandson, Jacob Dumke; and brother, Walter D. Anderson.

The family is grateful to Bethel Helping Hands, Norseland Nursing Home, and St. Croix Hospice for their care and kindness.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at DeSoto Lutheran Church. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Elaine will be laid to rest at Walnut Mound Cemetery after a luncheon at the church.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory in Westby is serving Elaine's family.

708 S. Main Street

Westby, WI 54667

(608) 634-2100