Obituary of Norman Baker

BAKER: Norman James Baker, after a very brief illness, passed away peacefully at Brandon Regional Health Centre with family by his side on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at the age of 87 years. Norm was born on April 26, 1935 in Brandon, Manitoba to William (Bill) and Helmi Baker.

Norm grew up, lived and worked on various farms around Brandon. He received his schooling at Cornwallis School, south of Brandon. Then in 1955, at the age of 20, jointly purchased farmland southeast of Brandon with his older brother Clendon.

Soon after, Norm met his future wife and love of his life, Edith Stanley, who also came from the same local farming community. On December 20th, 1963, Norm and Edith were married in Brandon, Manitoba. That following spring, they moved onto Norm’s farm, built their lives, their family, and where they resided and continued to farm for the rest of their lives.

They were blessed with four children, twin daughters, Kathy and Karen, arriving in 1965, followed by sons Ken in 1967, and Kevin in 1969.

Norm was a hardworking and humble man, Dad and Poppa, who thoroughly enjoyed time with family, celebrating milestones, Sunday picnics, fishing trips, bird watching and gardening. As a lifelong farmer, he watched the seasons change, hopeful for a great harvest, checked the weather forecast, the cattle and the crops. Norm loved all animals, he loved the land, loved the fresh air and an honest day’s work. Dad taught us simply by showing us…to care for each creature and critter and to love and care for one another.

Norm is survived by his children, Kathy (Mark Maxon), Karen (Brent Keilback), Ken Baker, and Kevin Baker. He is also survived by grandchildren, Kelsey and Bryce Keilback, Kendra Maxon, Alyse (Gage Bonne & baby Sophia) and Anthony Baker. Norm is survived by all of his siblings, Clendon, Donald, Albert and Jean (White) as well as numerous immediate and extended family members.

Norm was predeceased by his parents and his infant granddaughter, Kayla Maxon. And most recently, by his wife, Edith, in October of 2021. Dad’s commitment and compassion for his wife was never clearer to all of us than when he cared for Mum, at home, during her lengthy illness.

A private graveside service was held Friday, March 17, 2023 at Brandon Hills Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Harvey Hurren.

Donations in memory of Norm Baker may be made to the Brandon Hills Community Centre, Box 22, RR#4, Brandon, MB, R7A 5Y4.

A Joint Celebration of the lives of Norm and Edith will take place on Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel, 3130 Victoria Avenue, Brandon, MB.