Gary Burdette Baker

Gary Burdette Baker, born on September 14, 1939, in Stromsburg, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at home in Lee's Summit, Missouri, surrounded by family on January 29, 2025. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol (Goering) Baker, of 64 years; his beloved daughters, Kim Cannon of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Jyl and Ray Webb of Lee's Summit, Missouri; seven cherished grandchildren, Blake and Jennifer Stockman, Ryan and Alyson Stockman, Alyssa Stockman, Mason Webb, Logan and Kaitlin Webb, Ashlynn Webb, and David Cannon; and three treasured great-grandchildren, Malachi and Nicolette Stockman and Lucy Webb.

Gary grew up in Stromsburg, Nebraska, where his formative years were filled with a deep appreciation for rural life. A proud member of FFA and 4-H, he earned numerous ribbons, a testament to his dedication and hard work. His first heifer, Cloverleaf C. Buttercup, won him a purple rosette ribbon, marking the beginning of his lifelong connection to agriculture. In high school, Gary excelled both academically and athletically, achieving a remarkable 5'7" high jump and actively participating in Boy Scouts and football. He graduated from Stromsburg High School in 1957.

In 1958, Gary moved to Kearney, Nebraska and began working at the local grain elevator, laying the foundation for a long career in agricultural finance. He married the love of his life, Carol Goering, on September 18, 1960. His service to the nation began when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1962, serving as Military Police out of Fort Bragg until 1964. A significant and courageous moment in Gary’s life came when he played a key role in escorting James Meredith, the first Black student to attend the University of Mississippi, to classes amidst intense civil unrest. Gary, along with other military personnel, helped protect Meredith from rioters' violence and gunfire. Gary's bravery was recognized on TV when, on September 30 and October 1, 1962, he stood at the point of the wedge formation, pushing back rioters. Years later, at the 40th anniversary of the event, it was said, “You guys saved our town. The riot would have burned it to the ground.”

Following his military service, Gary pursued higher education, attending college in McCook, Nebraska, and then transferring to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. While there, he managed the student union, graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics with minors in Business and Science, and earned a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. His professional journey included roles as a grain department manager in Imperial, Nebraska; a pricing analyst for Conagra in Omaha; an area loan manager for The Equitable in agricultural real  estate; and vice president at First Nebraska Bank in Stanton, Nebraska, from which he retired in March 1999. After spending his first 80 years in Nebraska, he and Carol relocated to Lee's Summit, Missouri, to be closer to family.

 Gary was a man of many talents and passions. His love for woodworking was evident in the countless projects he crafted—from beds for his children and grandchildren to furniture, rocking horses, doll cradles, and much more. His handiwork, captured in two photo albums filled with his projects, stands as a lasting legacy of his craftsmanship. He often joked, "I enjoy the destruction of fine lumber, but I do make excellent sawdust," reflecting his humble humor and love for creating.

Gary’s life was marked by dedication—to his family, his work, and his country. His stories, laughter, and the warmth he brought to every room will be deeply missed, but fondly remembered by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Powell Gardens Chapel in Kingsville, Missouri, followed by refreshments at 3:00 p.m. 

Please copy/paste link for best directions to Powell Gardens due to winter maintenance: 

https://s3.amazonaws.com/ts-prod-assets.tripleseat.com/assets/019/106/380/Chapel_Directions.pdf

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Stromsburg Cemetery in Stromsburg, Nebraska, followed by lunch at Chances R in York, Nebraska.