John W. Baker

John William "Bill" Baker, 85, of Bancroft, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 22, 2025, after living a long and full life.

Born on July 5, 1939, in Humboldt, Illinois, Bill was the son of Homer and Iva Baker. He grew up in a modest farmhouse without electricity, where the value of hard work was deeply ingrained from an early age. Starting at a one-room schoolhouse where he rode a horse to school, he later excelled in high school football, setting several records. It was during those years he met the love of his life, Elaine, whom he married in 1958.

That same year, Bill began a long career with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, eventually becoming a highway surveyor. He was known for his dedication, precision, and strong work ethic, which also extended to his own tree-cutting and logging business. He purchased land specifically to harvest the wood, helping supply timber for log homes and spending countless hours outdoors, where he felt most at peace.

One of Bill’s greatest joys was the thrill of fishing in Canada and hunting on his land with family. He enjoyed the adventure, the challenge, and the connection to nature these experiences offered—moments filled with excitement, fulfillment, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Bill cherished the time while tending to his garden and spending quiet, thoughtful hours outdoors. He also loved watching his grandchildren play sports and rarely missed a game, cheering them on with pride and enthusiasm. Though a lifelong fan of football—especially the Packers—and basketball, it was his family's activities that brought him the most happiness, including many evenings spent playing cards around the table. In quieter moments, he enjoyed relaxing with a good TV show or movie at the end of the day.

Known for his quiet strength, subtle humor, deep patience, and unwavering devotion to his family, Bill was a steady and calming presence. He lived his values every day—faith, hard work, and love of family—and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him.

He is survived by Elaine, his wife of 66 years; their daughters, Cindy Sikorski (Don), Wendy Bickford (Matt), and Diana Baker-Schwartz (Mark); ten grandchildren: Sam Crahan (Jen), Jason Bickford (Kylie) , Cierra Knights (Brad), Camille Barden (Graham), Austin Sikorski, Brant Bickford (Becky), Mandi Beattie (Doug), Joey Crahan, Zachary Schwartz, and Nicole Schwartz; and fifteen great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Homer and Iva; his siblings, as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of MSICU at Aspirus Wausau Hospital for their compassionate care and support during Bill’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Living Tree Memorial Fund in Bill’s honor at https://cfcwi.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1156.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 12 P.M. at the Stahl Funeral Home in Plainfield, WI. Pastor Gary Zacharias will officiate, with burial to follow at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Bancroft, WI.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the service at 12 P.M. at the Stahl Funeral Home in Plainfield, WI.