Rudy Baker

Rudy Lee Baker entered into eternal rest on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Grandville, Michigan. Rudy was born March 30, 1947, in Grand Rapids. Rudy attended Ottawa Hills Public Schools and went on to study architecture and design at Lawrence Technological University. He had a deep appreciation for thoughtful design and creativity.

In his spare time, Rudy enjoyed following the Chicago Cubs and cheering on Hope College basketball. Above all, Rudy’s faith was central to his life, he lived it out daily through quiet strength and steady conviction. Though a man of few words, he listened well, spoke thoughtfully, and shared wisdom that left a lasting impact on those around him.

Rudy was a dedicated son, husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Suellen (VanAntwerp) Baker; daughters, Amber and Steve Tiemeyer, Katherine and Danny Baker-Reyes; grandchildren, Brady, Kenna, Landon, and Rocco; sister-in-law, Carol Verburg; nieces and nephews, Robin Verburg, Randy and Deb Verburg. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Inez (Kooiman) Baker; parents-in-law, William and Gladys (Emaus) VanAntwerp, and his brother-in-law, Robert Verburg.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Jim Jeffery officiating. Burial will take place at Grandville Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Friday, May 1, from 4-6 pm at the funeral home and on Saturday from 10-10:45 am prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Faith Hospice or the Cancer and Hematology Center of Holland. Special gratitude is shared for the compassionate care and support provided by Faith Hospice and the Cancer and Hematology Center of Holland.