Larry J. Baker, 77, of rural North English died Wednesday, July 26, 2017, at Briarwood Care Center in Iowa City.
Larry wished for simple family gathering at this time and no public services are being planned. Memorial donations will be used to support activities important to Larry and his family. Online condolences may be left at www.gayandciha.com. Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
Larry James Baker, son of John L. and Mona M. (Hewitt) Baker, was born Sept. 8, 1939, in Iowa City. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving during the Vietnam War and retiring after 20 years of service to his country. He returned to Iowa City where he got a job at Veterans Administration Hospital in Iowa City, again retiring after 20 years of service.
On Jan. 11, 1968, Larry married Phyllis Mae Herbel in Creston.
Larry is survived by his wife Phyllis; children, Jeff Baker (Debra) of Conroy, Phil Baker (DeLisa) of Kalona and Amy Tapken (Matt) of North English; grandchildren, Jake, Jack, Emma, Jesse, William and Daniel; sisters, Margaret Hardisty of Corning and Shirley Calvin, Catherine Bristow and Sue Baker, all of Creston; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Walter and Goldie Herbel; brothers, Jack and Dick Baker and brothers-in-law, Kenny Calvin, Riley Bristow and Darwin Hardisty.