Derwood Baker, 90, of Imperial, Missouri, and formerly of Woodlawn, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on October 9, 1934, in Wasson, Illinois, Derwood lived a full and meaningful life dedicated to service, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family.
A proud veteran, Derwood served his country with honor in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Following his military service, Derwood worked for Superior Oil Company, before building a successful career as a lineman with Tri- County Electric, where he worked diligently until his retirement. He was a long standing member of IBEW 702.
In 1957, Derwood married the love of his life, Midge Baker (nee Perkins), and together they built a beautiful family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in quail hunting, a passion he pursued throughout his life. A man of deep faith, Derwood was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Arnold, where he built lasting friendships and worshipped faithfully.
Derwood’s legacy lives on through his beloved family, who were his greatest source of pride and joy. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Midge, and their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. His surviving sons are Greg Baker (wife Tara) and Tim Baker (wife Misty), as well as the family of his late son, Mark Baker.
Derwood and Midge’s children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought immense happiness to his life. Greg and Tara’s daughters, Alayna and Samantha Cunningham, carry forward his spirit. Mark’s children, Heather Rifkin, Demetri Baker, Darius Baker, and Tony Baker. Tim and Misty’s children, Orry Baker (wife Mollie), Cody Baker, Mikaila Kopsky (husband Shane), and Hayden Baker (wife Mabree), continue to celebrate his life and honor his memory. Derwood’s great-grandchildren, Bennett, Huntleigh, Boone Baker, Isla Kopsky, and Denver and Harvey Baker, are a testament to the love and values he instilled in his family.
Tony’s children, Faith, Jacob, and Ben, were a source of joy for their grandfather.
Derwood will be remembered for his steadfast faith, quiet strength, love of the outdoors, and boundless devotion to his family. His selfless nature and dedication to those he held dear left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Funeral services to honor and celebrate Derwood’s life will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Kutis Funeral Home, 5255 Lemay Ferry Road. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service following at noon. Interment will take place immediately afterward at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, where Derwood will be laid to rest with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to First Baptist Arnold Building Renovation Fund, First Baptist Arnold 2012 Missouri State Rd, Arnold, MO 63010.
Derwood’s family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with loved ones who preceded him and rests peacefully in heaven, in the arms of the Lord. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who loved him.
I hate to hear of his passing. He was a good ole White county boy. Enjoyed working with him over the years. Talks of bird hunting and his family. He will truly be missed by his family and friends.
Sorry to hear this. I worked with Derwood at TCEC and like Dan says, he was a good ole country boy. My condolences to Midge and the family.
So sorry to hear about Derwood. My prayers are with you all.
This breaks my heart to hear about Derwood. I know he is having the time of his life surrounded by Mark n our Heavenly Father.
I have so many memories with the family. Camping, going on picnics, your dog biting my leg while playing basketball in your garage. Later on Derwood n Midge went for several years to Florida n Texas as snowbirds. They all had such a great time.
My prayers are with Midge n the whole family
So sorry to hear this. It was definitely a privilege to work with him and get to know him. He will truly be missed. My condolences to the family.
So sorry for you family loss don’t know him well but I use to go to church where Tim baker used to preach so I am just writing to let the Tim baker family know that I am truly sorry for you loss and will be praying for you family. And to let Derwood know thank you for his service to our country.
Midge and family, I am saddened by this news and I am praying for comfort and peace for you all. Derwood was a great man and I am thankful to have known him. Midge, you and Derwood helped me when I needed it most and you also lead me to The Lord. Much love and prayers,