Charles Baker

CHARLES RONEY BAKER

Our beloved husband, father & grandfather, Charles Roney Baker, 86, peacefully passed away Sunday, February 19, 2017 at St. Patrick’s Hospital from the effects of congestive heart failure.

Charles was born on March 29, 1930 in Anaconda, Montana to Charles Armstrong and Alice Roney Baker. Charles grew up in Anaconda and graduated from Anaconda High School in 1948 and then attended the University of Montana for 2 years. Summer jobs included working for the railroad as a messenger and the Anaconda smelter as a laborer.

In 1951 Charles enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean Crisis. The Air Force sent him to the University of Oklahoma-Norman for a six month military clerk course. In 1952 he was assigned as Company Clerk at Nellis Air Force base-Las Vegas, Nevada. In 1955 his four year hitch was up and he returned to Anaconda. In 1956 he attended the Butte Business School and completed an accounting program. In 1957 the Anaconda Company Smelter hired Charles in their accounting department.

It was in Anaconda where Charles met the love of his life Joy Rathbun and they married on June 6, 1959. In 1963 the couple transferred with the Anaconda Company/Champion International to make Missoula their permanent home. Charles and Joy raised a family in a home filled with unconditional love and support to their daughter Charlotte and son Robert.

In 1992 Champion International offered an opportunity of early retirement. Dad was thrilled because within a few months the company sold to a uncertain future with Stimpson Lumber Company. Charles and Joy enjoyed their retirement with worldwide travel, lovingly watching grandchildren, gardening, and walking 15-20 miles a week.

A husband, father, and grandfather he freely but quietly gave his love to family and friends. Survivors include children Charlotte & (Raymond) Nelson, Robert Charles Baker and his pride and joy-granddaughters Hope Michelle Nelson, Missoula & Jennifer Joy Nelson, Issaquah Washington and his daily Westie Terrier companion Winnie. His parents Robert & Alice, cousins Beulah Hodgson, Bruce and Luella Dundas, and Joy, his loving wife of 58 years, preceeded him in death on August 29, 2016.

A special thanks to St. Patrick’s Hospital doctors and health care team. The kind, gentle, and compassionate care and comfort provided to our father and family was truly appreciated.

Garden City Funeral Home is handling end-of-life arrangements. The family would welcome those who wish to join us later in the spring when we lay both Charles and Joy to rest at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula. To those of you who knew Charles we hope you will keep his spirit alive in your thoughts and prayers as shall we.