James Earl Baker, 66, of 317 Cherry Street in St.Marys, OH died 9:55 a.m. Wednesday April 23, 2008 at the Lutheran Hospital in Ft.Wayne, IN, following an extended battle with cancer and heart disease.

He was born September 5, 1941 in Jellico, TN to James H. & Margie (Smith) Baker.

On April 10, 1984, he married Rita E. Walker-Caywood, who survives.

Other survivors include:

daughter, Kim (Chris) Cron of Celina, OH

daughter, Lori (Michael) Baker of Wapakoneta, OH

daughter, Becky (John) Thomas of Twinsburg, OH

son, Robert (Lillian) Caywood of Milford Center, OH

son, Matthew (Rebecca Roby) Caywood of New Bremen, OH

15 grandchildren 3 great-grandchildren

sister, Stella Napier of Whitley City, KY

sister, Elizabeth (Albert) Coffey of Stearns, KY

sister-in-law, Helen Baker of Celina, OH

sister-in-law, Louise Baker of St.Marys, OH

He was preceded in death by his parents ,James & Margie Baker; brothers, Charlie & Arley Baker; brother-in-law, Dave Napier.

He had worked as a foreman for the former Ayers Asphalt & Paving Co. in Celina.

He njoyed fishing, visiting the state of Kentucky and spending time with his dog, “Skippy.”

Services are scheduled 7:00 p.m. Friday April 25, 2008 at the Miller Funeral Home (Ohio 703 West Chapel) in St.Marys, with Pastor Michael Baker, officiating.

Visitation after 1:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home on Ohio 703 West.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

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