Kenny A. Baker, 89, of Rochester was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 4:20 PM on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at his home.

On June 25, 1936, Kenneth Arnold Baker was born in Peoria, IL to William and Tressie Dehm Baker.  As one of seven children, he shared his childhood with two sisters and four brothers.

Kenny and Jean Ellen Helt were married on June 17, 2018, in Rochester. They shared seven wonderful years together with their blended family.

A man with a passion for agriculture in his early years Kenny oversaw a dairy farming operation.  He also was a grain farmer.  Finding joy in all facets of farming, he loved working on Saturdays at the Rochester Sale Barn.  He also worked for Pike Lumber Company in Akron for many years.

As an avid outdoors man, Kenny loved floating the river. The catch of the day was often caught in Hiatt's Pond or on the waters of the Tippecanoe River. In the fall, deer hunting was a hobby.  An avid wood chopper, chopping wood to keep the wood stacks full at home for the winter months and for family and friends.  Kenny had a very unique method of handling the wood and cutting it to perfection.  A man with a strong constitution, you could never tell him no as Kenny always prevailed.

Left to cherish Kenny's memory are his wife, Jean; four children: Mark (Renee) Baker of Rochester, Will (Bryleigh) Helt of Winamac, Sarah Helt of Rochester, Faith Sherk of Argos; twelve grandchildren: Jenifer (Brian) Bright, Melissa (Chad) Rorick, Ryan (Aleshia) Baker, Jaxin Harlin, Justin Harlin,   Camden Birk, Carter Helt, Pipper Helt, Charity Sherk, Taylor Sherk, Braxton Sherk, Gavin Whitfield; six great-grandchildren: Hayley Bright, Mya Rorick, Mason Rorick, Colton Baker, Brynlee Baker, Oliver Baker; brothers-in-law Dave (Karen) Helt, Bob (Sharon) Helt, Larry Helt; sisters-in-law Chris (Steve) Smith, Kathy Helt; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Preceding Kenny in death are his parents; two sisters, Betty and Hazel; four brothers:  Leonard, Eugene "Curley", Harry "Bud", Weldon "Wad"; three brothers-in-law:  Dan Helt, Kerry Helt, Kevin Helt; and in-laws John and Margaret Helt.

Following Kenny's wishes, a private family service will be held in 2026.