Bernice D. Baker

Bernice D. Baker, age 93, of rural Waumandee, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2020 at Sugar Loaf Memory Care in Winona. She was born on June 21, 1926 at home in Schoepps Valley, Buffalo County, a daughter of George and Elsie (Putz) Hilgert. She was a graduate of Cochrane High School and prior to graduating, was the band and orchestra instructor for 2 years. On August 24, 1943 Bernice was united in marriage to Joe Baker of Independence. Bernice was proud of her musical abilities and for a few years played at different ballroom dances in the area. Bernice lived her entire life on the family farm. She is survived by her three sons, Gene (Cheryl) Baker, David (Debbie) Baker and Chuck (Nancy) Baker all of Cochrane; daughter in law, Donna Baker of Alma; 9 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; two sisters, Elaine Fetting and Geraldine Palenski; also by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and her special friends, Rosemary Rotering and Alice Breitung. Besides her parents, Bernice was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Baker, Sr; son, Joe Baker, Jr and two sisters, Ruby and Doris. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at 1:00 PM at the Talbot Family Funeral Home, Alma Chapel. Inurnment will follow at Buffalo City Cemetery. A memorial gathering will be held on Wednesday, January 15 from 11:00 AM until the hour of the service at the funeral home.