Ernest W. Baker

July 10, 1924 - January 10, 2012

Ernest W. Baker, age 87 of Pensacola, passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2012. Ernie was born July 10, 1924 in Lafayette, Indiana. He entered the Air Force in 1942 and served as a pilot in World War II, Korean War and Vietnam. He received the Air Medal w/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal during his career. He retired from active duty with the rank of Major and then served in the Air Force Reserves. His service to his country totaled almost 42 years. He was an avid Republican, a life member of the AF&M Dundee Lodge #190, Indianapolis Valley Scottish Rite, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion Past patron Rockford Chapter #19, and enjoyed participating in Toastmaster Clubs where ever he lived. He is preceded in death by 3 sisters, and his son, Ernie Baker, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Betty Easter Baker; daughter, Patty Harris (Greg) of St. Paul, MN; son, Kris Foley; 3 step-daughters, Sandra Tomlinson, Ann (Jerry) Gray of Pensacola, and Janice Smith of Clarksville, TN; sister, Martha Jane Richardson of Atlanta, GA; 5 grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; 8 step-great grandchildren; and 1 step great, great grandchild; and his special pets, Tinkerbell and Dur. Special thanks to the staff of C wing at The Health Center of Pensacola for their unwavering care. Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 19, 2012 at Barrancas National Cemetery with nephew, Rev. David Walker officiating. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME, 100 Beverly Pkwy is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be placed online @ www.fcfhs.com. Service: G/S Barrancas National Cemetery