Edward Baker

Beloved longtime resident and original homesteader Edward Baker passed away July 16, 2024 at his home in Wasilla. Ed was born October 30, 1926 in Tacoma, Washington. Ed joined the Navy at seventeen and served our country during WW II. In 1948, he came to Alaska and worked cutting the boundary line between Alaska and Canada in Southeast up the Stikine River. He fell in love with Alaska and returned in 1950 to homestead on the Little Susitna River. He met the love of his life, LeEllen, and they married in 1956. Together they raised three daughters, Sue, Judi, and Kim. Ed was a man of many talents. He was a roofer, bus driver, and appraiser for the Municipality of Anchorage and much more. After “retiring” in 1982 Ed started a tree farm on the remaining homestead and worked it until just a few years ago. He was never happier than when he was driving his tractor or running a chainsaw.

Ed was always happiest if he could make his wife happy. She was the absolute love of his life. Theirs was a true love story. Ed lived his life with positivity, compassion, and generosity and always had a kind word to say. His wish to the world was for everyone to treat others with kindness. His love for life was truly amazing. Ed was an excellent storyteller and told wonderful stories of the past whether it be old time Wasilla in the 50’s or being a kid during the depression picking avocados off the tree in his backyard. His stories were always interesting, engaging, and fun. Ed and LeEllen loved to spend winters on Kauai and together loved family, swimming in the ocean, golfing, being with friends, and a glass of wine at sunset.

Ed is preceded in death by his loving wife LeEllen, parents Glenn and Margaret Baker, brother Terry Baker, and sister Mimi Gordon. Ed is survived by his three children Sue Hocker (Dave), Judi Miller (Jeff), and Kim Baker; grandchildren Zach Smith, Jacob Smith, Becky Berg, Lizzy Johnson, Miracle Workmen, Sarah Colliander, Miranda Johnson, Corryn Mason, Kyle Miller, and Nicole Denslinger. He is also survived by many great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held August 17, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at 1987 E. Carney Road (the farm). If you were part of Ed’s trapline, please join us to celebrate his life. Feel free to bring a dish and story to share about this wonderful man who was loved so much by so many