Robert Baker

Dr. Robert Jay Baker, age 86, of Cutlerville, went to be with his heavenly Father on Father’s Day, June 19, 2016.  He was born April, 1930 in Jamestown to Gerrit and Mary (Nyenhuis) Baker. He was preceded in death by his great granddaughter, Grace Baker; sister, Eleanor Baker; brother, Henry Baker. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 61 years, Vivian; children (grandchildren): Randy and Dianna Baker (Justin and Jennifer Baker, Brittany Baker, Lindsay and Kurtis Heerema), Dr. Rodney and Jean Baker (Jonathan and Janna Baker, Luke and Mandy Baker, Nathan Baker), Rochelle and Bill Lettinga (Tiffany and Jeremy Richmond, Bill Lettinga, Heather Lettinga), Rolene and Mark Hasper (Robert and Katlin Hasper, Erin and Tim Dykgraaf), Dr. Reed and Sharon Baker (Sam and Emily Baker, Jacob and Alissa Baker, Zac and Laura Baker); 12 great grandchildren; sister, Jerene Baker; sisters-in-law, Phyllis and Gordon Mast, Ruth Baker. Bob was a graduate of Calvin College and U of M Medical School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. He retired from Pine Rest after a long career as a psychiatrist, serving many years as Executive Director. His strong faith was evident in everything he did. He helped start a church, a Christian school, and served on the new building committee at Hillside Church. Bob was a sports enthusiast. He loved playing softball, was an avid golfer, and was a strong follower of South Christian and U of M athletics. Above all, he loved, supported and encouraged his wife, children and grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 23, at 11:00 am at Hillside Community Church, 1440 68^th St. SE, Grand Rapids. Relatives and friends may meet the family from Tuesday from 6-8 pm and Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood. Interment Blain Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hillside Community Church New Building Fund.