It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of Stanley Howard Baker; dear father, grandfather, and friend. Stanley passed away peacefully with family by his side on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

Stanley was born in Rosetown, SK, on August 6, 1943, to Clarence and Beatrice Baker. He relocated to the Grande Prairie, AB, area in the early 1960’s, where he worked as a farm hand for the Clarkson Family. In 1965 he ventured out on his own, remotely homesteading four quarters of land thirty miles north of Debolt, AB. Stanley and his family lived in the Bezanson area until 1973 when they began their adventure in the Puskwaskau area. This is where Stanley and Beverley resided for the remainder of their time together.

It was at a dance held at the Crystal Creek Community Hall that a beautiful lady named Beverley Rigler captured Stanley’s heart. After several years of courtship, they married on June 2, 1967. Stanley often told the story of buying Beverley’s engagement ring the same day he had purchased the old John Deere, and laughed that the ring was more expensive than the tractor. The ring had to be just perfect for the love of his life. In 1968, Brenda June Baker arrived, and then five years later Stephen Howard Baker rounded out the family of four.

Stanley’s strong work ethic came in handy when he was breaking and clearing the land to get it ready to farm. Many days were spent picking roots, working the land, harvesting potatoes, raising cattle, and maintaining equipment; all to provide for his family. He held many odd jobs over the years however farming and gardening were his passions. He would brag about his crop fields and gardens, and how he would sell his produce locally. In 2016, Stanley suffered the loss of his wife of almost 50 years and he mourned her loss deeply. It is a comfort to know that Stanley and Beverley are united once again.

Stanley is survived by his children: Brenda (Gary Berezowski), and Stephen (Stacey); granddaughters: Meagan and Taylor; brother Ralph; sister Dorthy; and many good friends including Donna, Dione, and Alfa.

Stanley was predeceased by his wife Beverley; mother Beatrice; father Clarence; brothers: Bobby and Roy; sisters: Phyllis, Joyce, and Margaret.

Stanley’s family would like to thank the nurses and doctors at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital and the Grande Prairie Care Center staff for their compassion and care that was provided during his stay.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, memorial donations can be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or a charity of one’s choice.

As per Stanley’s wishes, there will be no funeral or service. He will be cremated, and his ashes put with his wife, Beverley’s; and held dear by both children.

Dad, you are with Mom again and free from pain. You both will live on in our hearts. May the breeze in the air, the smell of fresh flowers, the crops in the field and the beauty of nature remind us of your presence and warm our hearts. Thank you both for all you did for us.

As We Look Back

By an Unknown Author

As we look back over time
We find ourselves wondering …..
Did we remember to thank you enough
For all you have done for us?
For all the times you were by our sides
To help and support us …..
To celebrate our successes
To understand our problems
And accept our defeats?
Or for teaching us by your example,
The value of hard work, good judgment,
Courage and integrity?
We wonder if we ever thanked you
For the sacrifices you made.
To let us have the very best?
And for the simple things
Like laughter, smiles and times we shared?
If we have forgotten to show our
Gratitude enough for all the things you did,
We’re thanking you now.
And we are hoping you knew all along,
How much you meant to us.