Larry Baker, 76, passed away peacefully hand-in-hand and in prayer, surrounded as he was in life, by love and admiration, on July 28th, 2023.

Larry Baker was born on December 10, 1946, in Bokoshe, Oklahoma and raised in Dos Palos, California.  Larry attended Fresno State University and was a proud soldier of the United States Army before relocating to Cabool, Missouri in 1979 to further pursue what would become a life-long career in education.  He would reside in Cabool for the next 44 years, until his passing on July 28th.

Larry married the love of his life, Cynthia Breid in 1984, with whom he curated an active friend group who he enjoyed many a float, beer, breakfast, or game with throughout his years.  A man of many talents, Larry was a man who could build and wire a house, and fix or craft just about anything.  His woodworking prowess was common knowledge and something he took great pride in.  He loved biking and music, and was well known to stand up and dance from time to time.  Never one to sit idle, Larry was a landlord, a rancher, and Mayor of Cabool following his retirement from education.  He was an avid reader, an astounding cook, and a pretty good fly-fisherman.  Larry was a man of strong faith and an active member of the Cabool United Methodist Church.

In sitting with Larry, my father, late in his life, we discussed the blessed life he'd led, including his hope and appreciation for the opportunity to have made a positive impact on countless students and families during his career in education.  His belief in the power of education and commitment to providing a learning atmosphere that was safe, positive, fair, and available to all, shaped his many years as a school counselor, teacher, and administrator.  He was, and continues to be, a role model for many of those whose lives he touched and will be remembered as an impactful educator and caring confidant.

Career, hobbies, and associations aside, it was his family Larry held most dear.  A loving husband and supportive father, Larry took great pride in the successes of both his sons, Joshua and Donovan, and relished time spent chatting and laughing with his five grandchildren.  Those of his family lucky enough to live close will remember his hugs and visits.  His California family will remember his Sunday phone calls and admirable dedication to remaining engaged, even from afar.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents Lee and Kibba Baker, and brother Ronald Baker.  He is survived by his wife Cynthia Baker of Cabool, sons Joshua (Katherine) Baker of San Luis Obispo, CA, Donovan (Lindsey) Baker of Republic, MO, grandchildren Jackson, Kadyn, Kyndall, Kynnadi, and Kash, and by his sisters Glenda Ralls, Martha Hamilton, and Karen Cardoza.

A private military service will be held with immediate family members, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations in the name of Larry Baker to:  ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Kabul Nursing Home, 1000 Main Street, Cabool, MO  65689.