Jon Raymond Baker

Published in The Oregonian on November 1, 2009

Baker, Jon Raymond 62 07/27/1947 10/25/2009 Jon passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his twin brother, Bob; sister, Laurie; daughters, Angi and Casey; and grandchildren, Brooke and Grant.

Jon was born in Portland to Robert H. and Mary Jo Baker, both of whom preceded him in death, as did his brother, Mark. He graduated from Sunset High School in 1965 with a baseball scholarship to Oregon State University.

Jon later trans-ferred to Columbia Basin College in the Tri-Cities area, where he met and married Beth Benefield, the love of his life.

Jon was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team for his outstanding ability and speed as a pitcher. He graduated with a degree in English from Pacific University and a Master of Divinity from Western Seminary. He enjoyed long philosophical conversation with anyone willing to debate; for this he will be sorely missed.

Jon developed cancer in 2002 and had struggled for the last seven years with poor health. He took great pride in his relationship with God. This brings great comfort to his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, in Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 18865 S.W. Johnson Street in Aloha, with a reception to follow. Please join our family to remember Jon and honor his life.